Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device using same

ABSTRACT

There is provided a liquid crystal composition containing a compound represented by Formula (i) and a compound represented by General Formula (ii) (where R ii1  and R ii2  each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbon atoms; and X ii1  and X ii2  each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom). There is also provided a liquid crystal display device in which such a liquid crystal composition is used.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a nematic liquid crystal compositionwhich is useful as a material for a liquid crystal display and which hasa positive dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈), and the present invention alsorelates to a liquid crystal display device using such a nematic liquidcrystal composition.

BACKGROUND ART

Liquid crystal display devices have been applied to, for example,watches, calculators, a variety of measuring equipment, panels used inautomobiles, word processors, electronic notebooks, printers, computers,television sets, clocks, and advertising boards. Representative examplesof types of liquid crystal display devices include a TN (twistednematic) type, an STN (super twisted nematic) type, and verticalalignment and IPS (in-plane switching) types involving use of a TFT(thin film transistor). Liquid crystal compositions used in such liquidcrystal display devices need to satisfy the following requirements:being stable to external stimuli such as moisture, air, heat, and light;having a liquid crystal phase in a wide temperature range mainlyincluding room temperature as much as possible; having a low viscosity;and enabling a low driving voltage. In addition, liquid crystalcompositions are composed of several to tens of compounds in order toadjust, for example, the dielectric anisotropy (Δ∈) and refractive indexanisotropy (Δn) to be optimum to individual display devices.

A liquid crystal composition having a negative Δ∈ is used in verticalalignment (VA)-type displays, and a liquid crystal composition having apositive Δ∈ is used in horizontal alignment-type displays such as a TNtype, an STN type, and an IPS (in-plane switching) type. Another type ofdriving has been reported, in which the molecules of a liquid crystalcomposition having a positive Δ∈ are vertically aligned in a state inwhich voltage is not applied, and then a horizontal electric field isapplied for performing display. A demand for a liquid crystalcomposition having a positive Δ∈ has therefore further increased. In alltypes of driving, however, there have been demands for driving at lowvoltage, a quick response, and a broad range of operating temperature.In other words, a liquid crystal composition having a positive Δ∈ with alarge absolute value, a low viscosity (II), and a high nematicphase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (Tni) has beendemanded. In order to control Δn×d that is a product of Δn and a cellgap (d) to be a predetermined value, the Δn of a liquid crystalcomposition needs to be adjusted to be in a proper range on the basis ofthe cell gap. In addition, a quick response is important in liquidcrystal display devices applied to television sets or other apparatuses,which generates a need for a liquid crystal composition having a smallrotational viscosity (γ1).

Liquid crystal compositions which enable a quick response have beendisclosed; for example, such liquid crystal compositions contain acombination of liquid crystal compounds having a positive Δ∈ andrepresented by Formulae (A-1) and (A-2) and a liquid crystal compoundhaving a neutral Δ∈ and represented by Formula (B). In these liquidcrystal compositions, the liquid crystal compound having a positive Δ∈has a —CF₂O— moiety, and the liquid crystal compound having a neutral Δ∈has an alkenyl group; it is widely known in the field of liquid crystalcompositions (see Patent Literatures 1 to 4).

As liquid crystal display devices have come to be used in a broad rangeof applications, usage and manufacturing thereof have been greatlychanged. In order to adapt to such changes, optimization ofcharacteristics other than known basic physical properties has beenneeded. In particular, a VA type and an IPS type have become popular asliquid crystal display devices utilizing a liquid crystal composition,and these types of display devices having a very large size (e.g., 50inches or lager) have also been practically used. An increase in thesize of substrates has changed a technique for putting a liquid crystalcomposition between the substrates, and a one-drop-fill (ODF) techniquehas become mainstream in place of a typically employed vacuum injectiontechnique. Dropping of a liquid crystal composition onto a substrate,however, generates droplet stains with the result that display qualityis degraded, which has been problematic.

Furthermore, in a process for manufacturing a liquid crystal displaydevice by an ODF technique, a liquid crystal material needs to bedropped in an amount optimum for the size of the liquid crystal displaydevice. In the case where the amount of a liquid crystal material to bedropped largely varies from the optimum level, a predetermined balancebetween a refractive index and a driving electric field in a liquidcrystal display device is disrupted, which causes defective display suchas unevenness and defective contrast. In particular, the optimum amountof a liquid crystal material to be dropped is small in small-size liquidcrystal display devices well used in smartphones which have becomepopular in recent years, and thus it is difficult even to control avariation from the optimum amount to be in a certain range. Hence, inorder to maintain a high yield of liquid crystal display devices, forinstance, a liquid crystal composition needs to be less affected by arapid pressure change and impact generated on dropping of the liquidcrystal composition in a dropping apparatus and to be able to be stablyand continuously dropped for a long time.

In terms of these circumstances, a liquid crystal composition which isused in active-matrix liquid crystal display devices driven by, forexample, TFT devices needs to be developed for satisfying requirementsfor liquid crystal display devices, such as enabling quick response andhaving a high specific resistance, a high voltage holding ratio, andimproved stability to external elements such as light and heat, also inview of a manufacturing process of liquid crystal display devices.

CITATION LIST Patent Literature

PTL 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No.2008-037918

PTL 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No.2008-038018

PTL 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No.2010-275390

PTL 4: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No.2011-052120

SUMMARY OF INVENTION Technical Problem

It is an object of the present invention to provide a liquid crystalcomposition having a positive Δ∈, the liquid crystal composition alsohaving a liquid crystal phase in a wide temperature range, a lowviscosity, a good solubility at low temperature, a high specificresistance, a high voltage holding ratio, and stability to heat andlight. It is another object of the present invention to enablehigh-yield production of a liquid crystal display device in which use ofthis liquid crystal composition gives excellent display quality with areduction in defective display brought about by screen burn-in anddroplet stains. It is another object of the present invention to providea liquid crystal display device using such a liquid crystal composition.

Solution to Problem

The present invention includes the following aspects.

(1) A liquid crystal composition having a positive dielectric anisotropyand containing a compound represented by Formula (i) and a compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii).

In General Formula (ii), R^(ii1) and R^(ii2) each independentlyrepresent an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxyl grouphaving 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbonatoms; and X^(ii1) and X^(ii2) each independently represent a hydrogenatom or a fluorine atom.

(2) The composition according to the aspect (1), wherein the amount ofthe compound represented by Formula (i) and the amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii) are from 1 mass % to 30 mass % andfrom 1 mass % to 40 mass %, respectively, relative to the total amountof the composition.

(3) The composition according to the aspect (1) or (2), furthercontaining at least one compound represented by General Formula (L).

[Chem. 3]

R^(L1)-B^(L1)-L^(L1)-B^(L2)L^(L2)-B^(L3)_(OL)R^(L2)  (L)

In the formula,

R^(L1) and R^(L2) each independently represent an alkyl group having 1to 8 carbon atoms, and one —CH₂— group or at least two —CH₂— groups notadjoining each other in the alkyl group are each independentlyoptionally substituted with —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—;

OL represents 0, 1, 2, or 3;

B^(L1), B^(L2), and B^(L3) each independently represent a group selectedfrom the group consisting of

(a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (of which one —CH₂— group or at least two—CH₂— groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with—O—) and(b) a 1,4-phenylene group (of which one —CH═ group or at least two —CH═groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with —N═),andthe groups (a) and (b) are each independently optionally substitutedwith a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom;

L^(L1) and L^(L2) each independently represent a single bond, —CH₂CH₂—,—(CH₂)₄—, —OCH₂—, —CH₂O—, —COO—, —OCO—, —OCF₂—, —CF₂O—, —CH═N—N═CH—,—CH═CH—, —CF═CF—, or —C≡C—;

in the case where OL is 2 or 3 and where L^(L2) is multiple, themultiple L^(L2)'s are the same as or different from each other; in thecase where OL is 2 or 3 and where B^(L3) is multiple, the multipleB^(L3)'s are the same as or different from each other; and the compoundrepresented by General Formula (L) excludes the compound represented byGeneral Formula (ii).

(4) The composition according to any one of the aspects (1) to (3),further containing at least one compound represented by General Formula(M).

In the formula,

R^(M1) represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one—CH₂— group or at least two —CH₂— groups not adjoining each other in thealkyl group are each independently optionally substituted with —CH═CH—,—C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—;

PM represents 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4;

C^(M1) and C^(M2) each independently represent a group selected from thegroup consisting of

(d) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (of which one —CH₂— group or at least two—CH₂— groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with—O— or —S—) and(e) a 1,4-phenylene group (of which one —CH═ group or at least two —CH═groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with —N═),and the groups (d) and (e) are each independently optionally substitutedwith a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom;

K^(M1) and K^(M2) each independently represent a single bond, —CH₂CH₂—,—(CH₂)₄—, —OCH₂—, —CH₂O—, —OCF₂—, —CF₂O—, —COO—, —OCO—, or —C≡C—;

in the case where PM is 2, 3, or 4 and where K^(M1) is multiple, themultiple K^(M1)'s are the same as or different from each other; in thecase where PM is 2, 3, or 4 and where C^(M2) is multiple, the multipleC^(M2)'s are the same as or different from each other;

X^(M1) and X^(M3) each independently represent a hydrogen atom, achlorine atom, or a fluorine atom;

X^(M2) represents a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, a chlorine atom, acyano group, a trifluoromethyl group, a fluoromethoxy group, adifluoromethoxy group, a trifluoromethoxy group, or a2,2,2-trifluoroethyl group; and the compound represented by GeneralFormula (M) excludes the compound represented by Formula (i).

(5) A liquid crystal display device in which the liquid crystalcomposition according to any one of the aspects (1) to (4) is used.

(6) The liquid crystal display device according to the aspect (5),wherein the liquid crystal display device is operated in an IPS mode.

(7) The liquid crystal display device according to the aspect (5),wherein the liquid crystal display device is operated in an OCB mode.

(8) The liquid crystal display device according to the aspect (5),wherein the liquid crystal display device is operated in an ECB mode.

(9) The liquid crystal display device according to the aspect (5),wherein the liquid crystal display device is operated in a VA mode.

(10) The liquid crystal display device according to the aspect (5),wherein the liquid crystal display device is operated in a VA-IPS mode.

(11) The liquid crystal display device according to the aspect (5),wherein the liquid crystal display device is operated in an FFS mode.

(12) A liquid crystal display in which the liquid crystal display deviceaccording to any one of the aspects (5) to (11) is used.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

The composition having a positive dielectric anisotropy according to thepresent invention has a significantly improved solubility at lowtemperature as compared with known compositions while the low viscosity,high specific resistance, and high voltage holding ratio thereof aremaintained; in addition, the composition can be stably and continuouslydropped for a long time in a process for manufacturing liquid crystaldisplay devices by an ODF technique. Hence, the composition of thepresent invention enables high-yield production of liquid crystaldisplay devices having an excellent display quality with a reduction indefective display resulting from the production process thereof and istherefore highly practical (adaptable) for products involving use ofliquid crystal; and liquid crystal display devices using thiscomposition, such as an IPS (in-plane switching) type and an FFS(fringe-field switching) type, can quickly respond.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a liquid crystal displaydevice according to the present invention; a substrate including members100 to 105 is referred to as “backplane”, and a substrate includingmembers 200 to 205 is referred to as “frontplane”.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exposure process in which a pattern used forforming columnar spacers above a black matrix is employed as the patternof a photomask.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention is a compoundhaving a positive dielectric anisotropy and containing a compoundrepresented by Formula (i) and a compound represented by General Formula(ii). The liquid crystal composition will now be described, and the term“%” refers to “mass %” unless otherwise specified. The preferred amountof each compound is an example of the preferred amount of the compoundto be contained in the liquid crystal composition (where the case inwhich the lower limit of the amount is 0 mass % is excluded).

In General Formula (ii), R^(ii1) and R^(ii2) each independentlyrepresent an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxyl grouphaving 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbonatoms; and X^(ii1) and X^(ii2) each independently represent a hydrogenatom or a fluorine atom.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (i) in the liquidcrystal composition is not particularly limited; however, the amount ispreferably not less than 1 mass %, also preferably not less than 2 mass%, also preferably not less than 3 mass %, also preferably not less than4 mass %, and also preferably not less than 8 mass % relative to thetotal mass of the liquid crystal composition. The amount of the compoundrepresented by Formula (i) in the liquid crystal composition is alsopreferably not more than 30 mass %, also preferably not more than 25mass %, also preferably not more than 20 mass %, also preferably notmore than 17 mass %, also preferably not more than 15 mass %, alsopreferably not more than 14 mass %, also preferably not more than 12mass %, also preferably not more than 8 mass %, also preferably not morethan 6 mass %, and also preferably not more than 5 mass % relative tothe total mass of the liquid crystal composition in view of solubilityat low temperature, nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and another property. In particular,the amount of the compound represented by Formula (i) in the liquidcrystal composition is preferably in the range of 1 to 30 mass %, alsopreferably 1 to 25 mass %, also preferably 1 to 20 mass %, alsopreferably 1 to 15 mass %, also preferably 2 to 14 mass %, alsopreferably 2 to 12 mass %, also preferably 2 to 8 mass %, alsopreferably 2 to 6 mass %, also preferably 2 to 5 mass %, also preferably3 to 14 mass %, also preferably 4 to 14 mass %, also preferably 8 to 14mass %, also preferably 2 to 12 mass %, also preferably 3 to 12 mass %,also preferably 4 to 12 mass %, also preferably 8 to 12 mass %, alsopreferably 2 to 8 mass %, also preferably 3 to 8 mass %, and alsopreferably 4 to 8 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (ii) in theliquid crystal composition is preferably not less than 1 mass %, alsopreferably not less than 3 mass %, also preferably not less than 5 mass%, also preferably not less than 8 mass %, also preferably not less than13 mass %, also preferably not less than 20 mass %, and also preferablynot less than 21 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention in view of response speed, electricreliability, and optical reliability. The amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii) in the liquid crystal composition isalso preferably not more than 40 mass %, also preferably not more than35 mass %, also preferably not more than 30 mass %, also preferably notmore than 26 mass %, also preferably not more than 18 mass %, alsopreferably not more than 12 mass %, and also preferably not more than 10mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention. In particular, the amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii) in the liquid crystal composition ispreferably in the range of 1 to 40 mass %, also preferably 1 to 35 mass%, also preferably 1 to 30 mass %, also preferably 1 to 26 mass %, alsopreferably 1 to 18 mass %, also preferably 1 to 12 mass %, alsopreferably 1 to 10 mass %, also preferably 5 to 30 mass %, alsopreferably 8 to 30 mass %, also preferably 13 to 30 mass %, alsopreferably 20 to 30 mass %, also preferably 21 to 30 mass %, alsopreferably 5 to 26 mass %, also preferably 8 to 26 mass %, alsopreferably 13 to 26 mass %, also preferably 20 to 26 mass %, alsopreferably 21 to 26 mass %, also preferably 5 to 18 mass %, alsopreferably 5 to 12 mass %, also preferably 5 to 10 mass %, alsopreferably 8 to 18 mass %, also preferably 13 to 18 mass %, and alsopreferably 8 to 12 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountsof the compound represented by Formula (i) and compound represented byGeneral Formula (ii) relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition are as follows in terms of solubility at low temperature,nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature, responsespeed, electric reliability, and optical reliability: it is preferredthat the amount of the compound represented by Formula (i) be from 1mass % to 30 mass % and that the amount of the compound represented byGeneral Formula (ii) be from 1 mass % to 40 mass %, it is also preferredthat the amount of the compound represented by Formula (i) be from 1mass % to 20 mass % and that the amount of the compound represented byGeneral Formula (ii) be from 1 mass % to 30 mass %, and it is alsopreferred that the amount of the compound represented by Formula (i) befrom 2 mass % to 14 mass % and that the amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii) be from 5 mass % to 26 mass %.

The total amount of the compound represented by Formula (i) and thecompound represented by General Formula (ii) is preferably not less than2 mass %, also preferably not less than 5 mass %, also preferably notless than 10 mass %, also preferably not less than 12 mass %, alsopreferably not less than 22 mass %, also preferably not less than 25mass %, and also preferably not less than 26 mass % relative to thetotal mass of the liquid crystal composition. The total amount of thecompound represented by Formula (i) and the compound represented byGeneral Formula (ii) is also preferably not more than 50 mass %, alsopreferably not more than 45 mass %, also preferably not more than 40mass %, also preferably not more than 35 mass %, also preferably notmore than 32 mass %, also preferably not more than 29 mass %, alsopreferably not more than 28 mass %, also preferably not more than 25mass %, also preferably not more than 18 mass %, and also preferably notmore than 17 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition. In particular, the total amount of the compound representedby Formula (i) and the compound represented by General Formula (ii) ispreferably in the range of 2 to 50 mass %, also preferably 5 to 50 mass%, also preferably 10 to 50 mass %, also preferably 12 to 50 mass %,also preferably 22 to 50 mass %, also preferably 25 to 50 mass %, alsopreferably 26 to 50 mass %, also preferably 5 to 45 mass %, alsopreferably 5 to 35 mass %, also preferably 5 to 32 mass %, alsopreferably 5 to 29 mass %, also preferably 5 to 28 mass %, alsopreferably 5 to 25 mass %, also preferably 5 to 18 mass %, alsopreferably 5 to 17 mass %, also preferably 10 to 32 mass %, alsopreferably 10 to 29 mass %, also preferably 10 to 28 mass %, alsopreferably 10 to 25 mass %, also preferably 10 to 18 mass %, alsopreferably 10 to 17 mass %, also preferably 12 to 32 mass %, alsopreferably 22 to 32 mass %, also preferably 25 to 32 mass %, alsopreferably 25 to 32 mass %, also preferably 12 to 17 mass %, alsopreferably 22 to 29 mass %, and also preferably 25 to 28 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii) is at least one. In the case whereat least two compounds represented by General Formula (ii) are used, aproper combination thereof is determined on the basis of predeterminedproperties such as solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and birefringence.

The compound represented by General Formula (ii) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby General Formula (ii-1).

In General Formula (ii-1), R^(ii1a) and R^(ii2a) each independentlyrepresent an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (ii-1) needsto be appropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended propertiessuch as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (ii-1) is, forinstance, in the range of 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment, 3 to 30 mass% in another embodiment of the present invention, 4 to 30 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 4 to 26 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 4 to 14 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 4 to 11 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 4 to 10 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 5 to 26 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 6 to 26 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 11 to 26 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 20 to 26 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 21 to 26 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 4 to 11 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 5 to 11 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 6 to 14 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (ii-1) is, for instance,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (ii.1.1) to (ii.1.9).

Such compounds can be used in any combination; it is preferred that oneto three of the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that one tofour of the compounds be used. Use of a compound having a broadmolecular weight distribution is also effective in solubility; hence, apreferred example of use of these compounds is as follows: one compoundis selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (ii.1.1) and(ii.1.2), one compound is selected from the compounds represented byFormulae (ii.1.4) and (ii.1.5), one compound is selected from thecompounds represented by Formulae (ii.1.6) and (ii.1.7), one compound isselected from the compounds represented by Formulae (ii.1.8) and(ii.1.9), and a proper combination of the selected compounds isdetermined. In particular, the compounds represented by Formulae(ii.1.1), (ii.1.3), (ii.1.4), (ii.1.6), and (ii.1.9) are preferablyemployed.

In the case where only one compound is selected, the compoundrepresented by Formula (ii.1.4) is preferably employed. In the casewhere two compounds are selected, the compounds represented by Formulae(ii.1.1) and (ii.1.6) are preferably employed. In the case where threecompounds are selected, the compounds represented by Formulae (ii.1.1),(ii.1.4), and (ii.1.6) are preferably employed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (ii) is, for example, preferably at least one compound selectedfrom the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formula(ii-2).

In General Formula (ii-2), R^(ii1b) and R^(ii2b) each independentlyrepresent an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms or an alkenyl grouphaving 2 to 5 carbon atoms, at least one of them represents an alkenylgroup having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, and X^(ii1b) and X^(ii2b) eachindependently represent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (ii-2) needsto be appropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended propertiessuch as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy. The amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii-2) is, for example, preferably in therange of 1 to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 to 15 mass %, and alsopreferably 1 to 13 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention. In particular, forexample, a preferred amount is as follows: from 1 to 12 mass %, from 1to 11 mass %, from 1 to 8 mass %, from 1 to 5 mass %, from 4 to 12 mass%, from 5 to 12 mass %, from 8 to 12 mass %, from 11 to 12 mass %, from4 to 8 mass %, or from 8 to 12 mass %.

The compound represented by General Formula (ii-2) is, for example,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (ii.2.1) to (ii.2.8); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (ii.2.2) is preferred.

Using a compound having a broad molecular weight distribution as acomponent of the liquid crystal composition is also effective insolubility; hence, in terms of an improvement in the solubility of theliquid crystal composition, a preferred example of use of thesecompounds is as follows: one compound is selected from the compoundsrepresented by Formulae (ii.2.1) and (ii.2.2), one compound is selectedfrom the compounds represented by Formulae (ii.2.3) and (ii.2.4), onecompound is selected from the compounds represented by Formulae (ii.2.5)and (ii.2.6), one compound is selected from the compounds represented byFormulae (ii.2.7) and (ii.2.8), and a proper combination of theseselected compounds is determined.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (ii.2.4) is preferably in therange of 3 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 20 mass %,also preferably 5 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 7 mass % to 15mass %, and also preferably 10 mass % to 12 mass % relative to the totalmass of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention in viewof solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention can furthercontain at least one compound represented by General Formula (L).

[Chem. 10]

R^(L1)-B^(L1)-L^(L1)-B^(L2)L^(L2)-B^(L3)_(OL)R^(L2)  (L)

In General Formula (L), R^(L1) and R^(L2) each independently representan alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and one —CH₂— group or atleast two —CH₂— groups not adjoining each other in the alkyl group areeach independently optionally substituted with —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—,—CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—;

OL represents 0, 1, 2, or 3;

B^(L1), B^(L2), and B^(L3) each independently represent a group selectedfrom the group consisting of

(a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (of which one —CH₂— group or at least two—CH₂— groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with—O—) and(b) a 1,4-phenylene group (of which one —CH═ group or at least two —CH═groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with —N═),andat least one hydrogen atom of each of the groups (a) and (b) isindependently optionally substituted with a cyano group, a fluorineatom, or a chlorine atom;

L^(L1) and L^(L2) each independently represent a single bond, —CH₂CH₂—,—(CH₂)₄—, —OCH₂—, —CH₂O—, —COO—, —OCO—, —OCF₂—, —CF₂O—, —CH═N—N═CH—,—CH═CH—, —CF═CF—, or —C≡C—;

in the case where OL is 2 or 3 and where L^(L2) is multiple, themultiple L^(L2)'s may be the same as or different from each other;

in the case where OL is 2 or 3 and where B^(L3) is multiple, themultiple B^(L3)'s may be the same as or different from each other; and

the compound represented by General Formula (L) excludes the compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii).

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of predetermined propertiessuch as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence (refractive index anisotropy). In anembodiment of the present invention, for example, one of such compoundsis used. In another embodiment of the present invention, two of thecompounds are used. In another embodiment of the present invention,three of the compounds are used. In another embodiment of the presentinvention, four of the compounds are used. In another embodiment of thepresent invention, five of the compounds are used. In another embodimentof the present invention, six of the compounds are used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, seven of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, eight of the compounds areused. In another embodiment of the present invention, nine of thecompounds are used. In another embodiment of the present invention, tenor more of the compounds are used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (L) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (L) is, forinstance, in the range of 20 to 95 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 30 to 95 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 40 to 95 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 43 to 95 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 44 to 95 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 57 to 95 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 67 to 95 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 89 to 95 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 40 to 92 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 40 to 90 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 40 to 57 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 40 to 49 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 40 to 46 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 43 to 92 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 44 to 92 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 57 to 92 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 67 to 92 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 89 to 92 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 43 to 90 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 43 to 57 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 43 to 49 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 43 to 46 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 44 to 46 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 49 to 57 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 57 to 67 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 57 to 90 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, and 67 to 90 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute toa high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lowerlimit be high and that the upper limit be high. In the case where theliquid crystal composition of the present invention needs to have a Tnikept at a high level to have a high temperature stability, it ispreferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be high and that theupper limit be high. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy forkeeping driving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that theabove-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upper limit be low.

In the case where the ring structures bonded to R^(L1) and R^(L2) arephenyl groups (aromatics), R^(L1) and R^(L2) are each preferably alinear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy grouphaving 1 to 4 (or more) carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 4 or 5carbon atoms; in the case where the ring structures bonded to R^(L1) andR^(L2) are saturated rings such as cyclohexane, pyran, and dioxane,R^(L1) and R^(L2) are each preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 (or more) carbonatoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition needs to be chemicallystable, it is preferred that the molecules of the compound representedby General Formula (L) be free from a chlorine atom.

The compound represented by General Formula (L) is, for example,preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by General Formula (I).

[Chem. 11]

R¹¹-A¹¹-A¹²-R¹²  (I)

In General Formula (I), R¹¹ and R¹² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms; and A¹¹and A¹² each independently represent a 1,4-cyclohexylene group, a1,4-phenylene group, a 2-fluoro-1,4-phenylene group, or a3-fluoro-1,4-phenylene group.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused. In another embodiment of the present invention, four of thecompounds are used. In another embodiment of the present invention, fiveof the compounds are used. In another embodiment of the presentinvention, six or more of the compounds are used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (I) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I) is, forinstance, 10 to 60 mass % in an embodiment of the present invention, 10to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 50mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 48 mass %in another embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 40 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 39 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 10 to 37 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 55 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 55 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 37 to 55 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 43 to 55 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 48 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 40 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 39 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 37 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 17 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 40 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 39 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 37 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 43 to 48 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute toa high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lowerlimit be high and that the upper limit be high. In the case where theliquid crystal composition of the present invention needs to have a Tnikept at a high level to have a good temperature stability, it ispreferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be moderate and that theupper limit be moderate. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy forkeeping driving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that theabove-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upper limit be low.

In the case where the ring structures bonded to R¹¹ and R¹² are phenylgroups (aromatics), R¹¹ and R¹² are each preferably a linear alkyl grouphaving 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbonatoms, or an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbon atoms; in the case wherethe ring structures bonded to R¹¹ and R¹² are saturated rings such ascyclohexane, pyran, and dioxane, R¹¹ and R¹² are each preferably alinear alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy grouphaving 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms.

The compound represented by General Formula (I) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby General Formula (I-1).

In General Formula (I-1), R¹¹ and R¹² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused. In another embodiment of the present invention, four of thecompounds are used. In another embodiment of the present invention, fiveor more of the compounds are used.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention contains the compound represented by General Formula (I-1),the amount thereof needs to be appropriately adjusted on the basis ofpredetermined properties such as solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, birefringence, processadaptability, droplet stains, screen burn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-1) is, forexample, 10 to 60 mass % in an embodiment of the present invention, 10to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 50mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 48 mass %in another embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 40 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 39 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 10 to 37 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 55 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 55 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 37 to 55 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 43 to 55 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 48 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 40 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 39 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 37 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 17 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 40 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 39 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 37 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 43 to 48 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute toa high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lowerlimit be high and that the upper limit be high. In the case where theliquid crystal composition of the present invention needs to have a Tnikept at a high level to have a good temperature stability, it ispreferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be moderate and that theupper limit be moderate. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy forkeeping driving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that theabove-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upper limit be low.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I-1) is preferably at least one compound selected from thegroup consisting of compounds represented by General Formula (I-1-1).

In General Formula (I-1-1), R¹² represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 5 carbon atoms.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (I-1-1) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-1-1) is,for example, from 1 to 35 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 26 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 17 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 16 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 6 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 7 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 8 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 10 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 26 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 17 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 6 to 26 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 6 to 16 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 7 to 26 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 7 to 16 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, and 8 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (I-1-1) is preferably acompound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented byFormulae (1.1) to (1.3); among these, the compound represented byFormula (1.2) or (1.3) is preferred, and the compound represented byFormula (1.3) is especially preferred.

In the case where the compound represented by Formula (1.2) or (1.3) isused alone, the amount of the compound represented by Formula (1.2) ispreferably large because it is effective in improving a response speed,and the amount of the compound represented by Formula (1.3) ispreferably within the following ranges because it contributes toproduction of a liquid crystal composition which enables a quickresponse and which has high electric reliability and opticalreliability.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (1.3) is, forinstance, from 1 to 25 mass % in an embodiment of the present invention,1 to 20 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 1 to 16mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 1 to 12 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 1 to 10 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 5 mass % in another embodimentof the present invention, 2 to 16 mass % in another embodiment of thepresent invention, 2 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 5 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention,6 to 16 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 7 to 16mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 7 to 10 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 7 to 8 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 8 to 12 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I-1) is preferably at least one compound selected from thegroup consisting of compounds represented by General Formula (I-1-2).

In General Formula (I-1-2), R¹² represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenylgroup having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (I-1-2) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-1-2) is,for instance, from 1 to 50 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 45 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 41 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 39 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 26 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 17 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 7 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention,3 to 41 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 3 to 39mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 3 to 26 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 3 to 17 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 3 to 7 mass % in another embodimentof the present invention, 12 to 41 mass % in another embodiment of thepresent invention, 14 to 41 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 27 to 41 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 12 to 39 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 12 to 26 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, and 12 to 17 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (I-1-2) is preferably acompound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented byFormulae (2.1) to (2.4); among these, the compounds represented byFormulae (2.2) to (2.4) are preferred. In particular, the compoundrepresented by Formula (2.2) is preferred because it especially enhancesthe response speed of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention. If high Tni is needed rather than the response speed, it ispreferred that the compound represented by Formula (2.3) or (2.4) beemployed. In order to improve solubility at low temperature, it ispreferred that the amount of each of the compounds represented byFormulae (2.3) and (2.4) be less than 30 mass %.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (2.2) is preferably in the rangeof 5 mass % to 50 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 45 mass %, andalso preferably 10 mass % to 45 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention. In particular, apreferred amount is as follows: from 12 mass % to 41 mass %, from 12mass % to 39 mass %, from 12 mass % to 26 mass %, from 12 mass % to 17mass %, from 14 mass % to 41 mass %, from 14 mass % to 39 mass %, from14 mass % to 26 mass %, or from 27 mass % to 41 mass %.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (2.3) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 20 mass %, alsopreferably 10 mass % to 15 mass %, and also preferably 6 mass % to 15mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (2.4) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 25 mass %, more preferably 1 mass % to 20 mass %, alsopreferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 10 mass %,and also preferably 3 mass % to 7 mass % relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention can furthercontain a compound which is represented by Formula (2.5) and which has astructure similar to that of the compound represented by General Formula(I-1-2).

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (2.5) is preferablyadjusted on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence; the amount is preferably in the range of 0 to 40 mass %,also preferably 1 to 35 mass %, also preferably 1 to 30 mass %, and alsopreferably 5 to 28 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (I-2).

In General Formula (I-2), R¹³ and R¹⁴ each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a combination of thecompounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (I-2) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-2) is, forexample, from 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the present invention,2 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 4 to 30mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 6 to 30 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 20 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

Furthermore, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula(I-2) is, for instance, in the range of 1 to 25 mass % in an embodimentof the present invention, 1 to 23 mass % in another embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 18 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, and 1 to 5 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (I-2) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby Formulae (3.1) to (3.4); among these, the compound represented byFormula (3.1), the compound represented by Formula (3.3), and/or thecompound represented by Formula (3.4) are preferred. In particular, thecompound represented by Formula (3.2) is preferred because it especiallyenhances the response speed of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention. In the case where high Tni is needed rather than theresponse speed, it is preferred that the compound represented by Formula(3.3) and/or (3.4) be employed. In order to improve solubility at lowtemperature, it is preferred that the amount of each of the compoundsrepresented by Formulae (3.3) and (3.4) be less than 20 mass %.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, thepreferred amount of the compound represented by Formula (3.3) is in therange of 2 mass % to 40 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention. Examples of the morepreferred amount thereof are as follows: from 3 mass % to 40 mass %,from 4 mass % to 40 mass %, from 10 mass % to 40 mass %, from 12 mass %to 40 mass %, from 14 mass % to 40 mass %, from 16 mass % to 40 mass %,from 20 mass % to 40 mass %, from 23 mass % to 40 mass %, from 26 mass %to 40 mass %, from 30 mass % to 40 mass %, from 34 mass % to 40 mass %,from 37 mass % to 40 mass %, from 3 mass % to 4 mass %, from 3 mass % to10 mass %, from 3 mass % to 12 mass %, from 3 mass % to 14 mass %, from3 mass % to 16 mass %, from 3 mass % to 20 mass %, from 3 mass % to 23mass %, from 3 mass % to 26 mass %, from 3 mass % to 30 mass %, from 3mass % to 34 mass %, and from 3 mass % to 37 mass %.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (I-3).

In General Formula (I-3), R¹³ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, and R¹⁵ represents an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbonatoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a combination of thecompounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (I-3) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-3) is, forexample, from 3 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the present invention,4 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 15 to 30mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 25 to 30 mass %in another embodiment of the present invention, 3 to 25 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 3 to 20 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 3 to 15 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 3 to 5 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In terms of solubility at low temperature, the amount is adjusted to belarger to produce a greater effect; in terms of response speed, theamount is adjusted to be smaller to produce a greater effect. In orderto improve properties related to droplet stains and screen burn-in, therange of the amount is preferably adjusted to be intermediate.

The compound represented by General Formula (I-3) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby Formulae (4.1) to (4.3); in particular, the compound represented byFormula (4.3) is preferred.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (4.3) is preferably inthe range of 2 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 4 mass % to 30 mass%, also preferably 6 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 8 mass % to 30mass %, also preferably 10 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 12 mass% to 30 mass %, also preferably 14 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably16 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 18 mass % to 25 mass %, alsopreferably 20 mass % to 24 mass %, and especially preferably 22 mass %to 23 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (I-4).

In General Formula (I-4), R¹¹ and R¹² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 or 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a combination of thecompounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (I-4) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-4) is, forexample, 2 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the present invention, 5 to30 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 6 to 30 mass %in another embodiment of the present invention, 8 to 30 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 10 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 12 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 20 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 25 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 2 to 25 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 2 to 20 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 2 to 15 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 2 to 10 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In terms of an enhancement in birefringence, the amount is adjusted tobe larger to produce a greater effect; in terms of high Tni, the amountis adjusted to be smaller to produce a greater effect. In order toimprove properties related to droplet stains and screen burn-in, therange of the amount is preferably adjusted to be intermediate.

The compound represented by General Formula (I-4) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby Formulae (5.1) to (5.4); among these, at least one compound selectedfrom the group consisting of the compounds represented by Formulae (5.2)to (5.4) is preferred.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (5.4) is preferably inthe range of 2 mass % to 30 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention. In particular, forexample, a preferred amount is as follows: from 4 mass % to 30 mass %,from 6 mass % to 30 mass %, from 8 mass % to 30 mass %, from 10 mass %to 30 mass %, from 12 mass % to 30 mass %, from 14 mass % to 30 mass %,from 16 mass % to 30 mass %, from 18 mass % to 30 mass %, from 20 mass %to 30 mass %, from 22 mass % to 30 mass %, from 23 mass % to 30 mass %,from 24 mass % to 30 mass %, from 25 mass % to 30 mass %, from 4 mass %to 6 mass %, from 4 mass % to 8 mass %, from 4 mass % to 10 mass %, from4 mass % to 12 mass %, from 4 mass % to 14 mass %, from 4 mass % to 16mass %, from 4 mass % to 18 mass %, from 4 mass % to 20 mass %, from 4mass % to 22 mass %, from 4 mass % to 23 mass %, from 4 mass % to 24mass %, and from 4 mass % to 25 mass %.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (I-5).

In General Formula (I-5), R¹¹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and R¹² represents an alkyl grouphaving 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbon atoms,or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a combination of thecompounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (I-5) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-5) is, forexample, 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the present invention, 5 to30 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 8 to 30 mass %in another embodiment of the present invention, 11 to 30 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 13 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 17 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 20 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 25 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 25 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 20 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 15 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 10 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 1 to 5 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In terms of solubility at low temperature, the amount is adjusted to belarger to produce a greater effect; in terms of response speed, theamount is adjusted to be smaller to produce a greater effect. In orderto improve properties related to droplet stains and screen burn-in, therange of the amount is preferably adjusted to be intermediate.

The compound represented by General Formula (I-5) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby Formulae (6.1) to (6.6); among these, the compound represented byFormula (6.3), the compound represented by Formula (6.4), and/or thecompound represented by Formula (6.6) are preferred.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (6.6) is, forinstance, preferably in the range of 2 mass % to 30 mass %, alsopreferably 4 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 30 mass %,also preferably 6 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 9 mass % to 30mass %, also preferably 12 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 14 mass% to 30 mass %, also preferably 16 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably18 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 20 mass % to 24 mass %, and alsopreferably 22 mass % to 23 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (1-5), which can be furthercontained in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention,can also be a compound represented by Formula (6.7) and/or a compoundrepresented by Formula (6.8).

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (6.7) is preferablyadjusted on the basis of the intended properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence; the amount of this compound is preferably in the range of2 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 3 mass % to 27 mass %, alsopreferably 5 mass % to 25 mass %, and also preferably 7 mass % to 23mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (I-6).

In Formula (I-6), R¹¹ and R¹² each independently represent an alkylgroup having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbonatoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; X¹¹ and X¹² eachindependently represent a fluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; and any oneof X¹¹ and X¹² is a fluorine atom.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-6) ispreferably in the range of 2 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 4 mass% to 30 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 6mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 9 mass % to 30 mass %, alsopreferably 12 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 14 mass % to 30 mass%, also preferably 16 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 18 mass % to25 mass %, also preferably 20 mass % to 24 mass %, and also preferably22 mass % to 23 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (I-6) is preferably acompound represented by Formula (7.1).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I) is preferably a compound selected from the group consistingof compounds represented by General Formula (I-7).

In General Formula (I-7), R¹¹ and R¹² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and X¹²represents a fluorine atom or a chlorine atom.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (I-7) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass% to 15 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 10 mass %, and alsopreferably 1 mass % to 5 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (I-7) is preferably acompound represented by Formula (8.1).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (I) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (I-8).

In General Formula (I-8), R¹⁶ and R¹⁷ each independently represent analkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of the intendedproperties such as solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and birefringence, it is preferredthat one to three of the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (1-8) ispreferably from 1 to 30 mass %, also preferably 1 to 25 mass %, alsopreferably 1 to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 to 18 mass %, and alsopreferably 3 to 18 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention in view of the intendedproperties such as solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, birefringence, process adaptability,droplet stains, screen burn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The compound represented by General Formula (1-8) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby Formulae (9.1) to (9.10); among these, the compound represented byFormula (9.2), the compound represented by Formula (9.4), and/or thecompound represented by Formula (9.7) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (L) is, for example, preferably at least one compound selectedfrom compounds represented by General Formula (II).

In General Formula (II), R²¹ and R²² each independently represent analkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; A²represents a 1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group; and Q²represents a single bond, —COO—, —CH₂—CH₂—, or CF₂O—.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a combination of thecompounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused. In another embodiment of the present invention, four or more ofthe compounds are used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (II) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (II) is, forinstance, from 3 to 35 mass % in an embodiment of the present invention,3 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 3 to 25mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 3 to 21 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 3 to 20 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 3 to 18 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 3 to 15 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 3 to 12 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 4 to 21 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 11 to 21 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 13 to 21 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 15 to 21 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 16 to 21 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 4 to 12 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 11 to 20 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 13 to 15 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, and 15 to 18 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (II) is, for instance,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by General Formula (II-1).

In General Formula (II-1), R²¹ and R²² each independently represent analkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (II-1) ispreferably adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence; the amount is preferably in the range of4 mass % to 24 mass %, more preferably 8 mass % to 18 mass %, andfurther preferably 12 mass % to 14 mass %.

The compound represented by General Formula (II-1) is, for example,preferably a compound represented by Formula (10.1) and/or a compoundrepresented by Formula (10.2).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (II) is, for instance, preferably at least one compound selectedfrom the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formula(II-2).

In General Formula (II-2), R²³ represents an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, and R²⁴ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbonatoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a combination of thecompounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two or more of the compounds areused.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (II-2) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (II-2) is, forinstance, in the range of 3 to 35 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 3 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 3 to 25 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 3 to 20 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 3 to 18 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 3 to 15 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 3 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 3 to 11 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 4 to 20 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 6 to 20 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 11 to 20 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 13 to 20 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 15 to 20 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 4 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 6 to 11 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 13 to 15 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, and 15 to 18 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (II-2) is, for example,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (11.1) to (11.3).

On the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at lowtemperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence, the compound represented by Formula (11.1) may be used;the compound represented by Formula (11.2) may be used; both of thecompound represented by Formula (11.1) and the compound represented byFormula (11.2) may be used; or all of the compounds represented byFormulae (11.1) to (11.3) may be used.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (11.1) is preferablyin the range of 1 to 30 mass %, also preferably 2 to 25 mass %, alsopreferably 2 to 20 mass %, and also preferably 2 to 15 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention. In particular, for example, a preferred amount is as follows:from 4 to 15 mass %, from 4 to 13 mass %, from 4 to 12 mass %, from 4 to11 mass %, from 5 to 15 mass %, from 6 to 15 mass %, from 7 to 15 mass%, from 8 to 15 mass %, from 6 to 11 mass %, and from 7 to 13 mass %.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (11.2) is preferablyin the range of 1 to 30 mass %, also preferably 1 to 25 mass %, alsopreferably 1 to 20 mass %, and also preferably 1 to 15 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention. In particular, the amount is, for example, preferably from 1to 10 mass %, more preferably 2 to 10 mass %, further preferably 4 to 10mass %, further preferably 5 to 10 mass %, further preferably 1 to 9mass %, and further preferably 4 to 8 mass % in an embodiment.

In the case where both the compound represented by Formula (11.1) andthe compound represented by Formula (11.2) are used, the total massthereof is preferably in the range of 1 mass % to 35 mass %, alsopreferably 1 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 25 mass %,also preferably 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 18mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 1 mass %to 12 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 11 mass %, also preferably 4mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 6 mass % to 20 mass %, alsopreferably 11 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 13 mass % to 20 mass%, also preferably 15 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 4 mass % to12 mass %, also preferably 6 mass % to 11 mass %, also preferably 13mass % to 15 mass %, and also preferably 15 mass % to 18 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (II) is, for example, preferably at least one compound selectedfrom the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formula(II-3).

In General Formula (II-3), R²⁵ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, and R²⁴ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbonatoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of the intendedproperties such as solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and birefringence, it is preferredthat one to three of the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (II-3) needsto be appropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined propertiessuch as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The preferred amount of the compound represented by General Formula(II-3) is, for instance, in the range of 2 to 45 mass % relative to thetotal mass of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.In particular, examples of the preferred amount are as follows: from 5to 45 mass %, from 8 to 45 mass %, from 11 to 45 mass %, from 14 to 45mass %, from 17 to 45 mass %, from 20 to 45 mass %, from 23 to 45 mass%, from 26 to 45 mass %, from 29 to 45 mass %, from 2 to 45 mass %, from2 to 40 mass %, from 2 to 35 mass %, from 2 to 30 mass %, from 2 to 25mass %, from 2 to 20 mass %, from 2 to 15 mass %, and from 2 to 10 mass%.

The compound represented by General Formula (II-3) is, for example,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (12.1) to (12.3).

On the basis of the intended properties such as solubility at lowtemperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence, the compound represented by Formula (12.1) may be used,the compound represented by Formula (12.2) may be used, and both of thecompound represented by Formula (12.1) and the compound represented byFormula (12.2) may be used.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (12.1) is preferablyin the range of 3 mass % to 40 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 40mass %, also preferably 7 mass % to 40 mass %, also preferably 9 mass %to 40 mass %, also preferably 11 mass % to 40 mass %, also preferably 12mass % to 40 mass %, also preferably 13 mass % to 40 mass %, alsopreferably 18 mass % to 30 mass %, and also preferably 21 mass % to 25mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (12.2) is preferablyin the range of 3 mass % to 40 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 40mass %, also preferably 8 mass % to 40 mass %, also preferably 10 mass %to 40 mass %, also preferably 12 mass % to 40 mass %, also preferably 15mass % to 40 mass %, also preferably 17 mass % to 30 mass %, and alsopreferably 19 mass % to 25 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In the case where the compounds represented by Formulae (12.1) and(12.2) are used in combination, the total mass of these compounds ispreferably in the range of 15 mass % to 45 mass %, also preferably 19mass % to 45 mass %, also preferably 24 mass % to 40 mass %, and alsopreferably 30 mass % to 35 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (12.3) is preferablyin the range of 0.05 mass % to 2 mass %, also preferably 0.1 mass % to 1mass %, and also preferably 0.2 mass % to 0.5 mass % relative to thetotal mass of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.The compound represented by Formula (12.3) may be an optically activecompound.

The compound represented by General Formula (II-3) is, for example,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by General Formula (II-3-1).

In General Formula (II-3-1), R²⁵ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, and R²⁶ represents an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbonatoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of the intendedproperties such as solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and birefringence, it is preferredthat one to three of the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (II-3-1) ispreferably adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence; the amount is preferably in the range of1 mass % to 24 mass %, also preferably 4 mass % to 18 mass %, and alsopreferably 6 mass % to 14 mass %.

The compound represented by General Formula (II-3-1) is, for instance,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (13.1) to (13.4), and especiallypreferably the compound represented by Formula (13.3).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (II) is, for example, preferably at least one compound selectedfrom the group consisting of compounds represented by General Formula(II-4).

In General Formula (II-4), R²¹ and R²² each independently represent analkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds may be used alone or in combination, and it is preferredthat a proper combination thereof be determined on the basis of theintended properties. The compounds can be used in any combination; inview of the intended properties such as solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and birefringence, it ispreferred that one or two of the compounds be used, and it is morepreferred that one to three of the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (II-4) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 2 mass% to 15 mass %, also preferably 3 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 4mass % to 12 mass %, and also preferably 5 mass % to 7 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention.

The compound represented by General Formula (II-4) is, for instance,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (14.1) to (14.5), and especiallypreferably the compound represented by Formula (14.2) and/or thecompound represented by Formula (14.5).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (L) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (III).

In General Formula (III), R³¹ and R³² each independently represent analkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

In view of the intended properties such as solubility and birefringence,the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (III) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 2 mass% to 20 mass %, also preferably 2 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 2mass % to 10 mass %, and also preferably 2 mass % to 5 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention.

The compound represented by General Formula (III) is, for instance,preferably a compound represented by Formula (15.1) and/or a compoundrepresented by Formula (15.2), and especially preferably the compoundrepresented by Formula (15.1).

The compound represented by General Formula (III) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby General Formula (III-1).

In General Formula (III-1), R³³ represents an alkenyl group having 2 to5 carbon atoms, and R³² represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbonatoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (III-1) ispreferably adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence; the amount is preferably in the range of4 mass % to 23 mass %, also preferably 6 mass % to 18 mass %, and alsopreferably 10 mass % to 13 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (III-1) is, for example,preferably a compound represented by Formula (16.1) and/or a compoundrepresented by Formula (16.2).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (III) is preferably at least one compound selected from thegroup consisting of compounds represented by General Formula (III-2).

In General Formula (III-2), R³¹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, and R³⁴ represents an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbonatoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (III-2) ispreferably adjusted on the basis of the intended properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence; the amount is preferably in the range of4 mass % to 23 mass %, also preferably 6 mass % to 18 mass %, and alsopreferably 10 mass % to 13 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (III-2) is, for instance,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (17.1) to (17.3), and especiallypreferably the compound represented by Formula (17.3).

The compound represented by General Formula (L) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby General Formula (V).

In General Formula (V), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; A⁵¹ and A⁵²each independently represent a 1,4-cyclohexylene group or a1,4-phenylene group; Q⁵ represents a single bond or —COO—; and X⁵¹ andX⁵² each independently represent a fluorine atom or a hydrogen atom.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused. In another embodiment of the present invention, four of thecompounds are used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V) is, forexample, 1 to 25 mass % in an embodiment, 1 to 20 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 15 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 10 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 8 mass % in another embodimentof the present invention, 1 to 7 mass % in another embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 4 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 2 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention,2 to 8 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 4 to 8mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, and 7 to 8 mass %in another embodiment of the present invention relative to the totalmass of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (V-1).

In General Formula (V-1), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and X⁵¹ andX⁵² each independently represent a fluorine atom or a hydrogen atom.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-1) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (V-1-1).

In General Formula (V-1-1), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V-1-1) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, more preferably 2 mass% to 10 mass %, further preferably 3 mass % to 10 mass %, furtherpreferably 3 mass % to 7 mass %, and further preferably 3 mass % to 5mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-1-1) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (20.1) to (20.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (20.2) is preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (V-1) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (V-1-2).

In General Formula (V-1-2), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V-1-2) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 1 mass% to 10 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 7 mass %, and alsopreferably 1 mass % to 5 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-1-2) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (21.1) to (21.3); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (21.1) is preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (V-1) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (V-1-3).

In General Formula (V-1-3), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V-1-3) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 2 mass% to 15 mass %, also preferably 3 mass % to 10 mass %, and alsopreferably 4 mass % to 8 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-1-3) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (22.1) to (22.3), and more preferably thecompound represented by Formula (22.1).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (V) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (V-2).

In General Formula (V-2), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and X⁵¹ andX⁵² each independently represent a fluorine atom or a hydrogen atom.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two or more of the compounds areused.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V-2) is, forinstance, in the range of 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment, 1 to 25 mass% in another embodiment of the present invention, 1 to 20 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 1 to 15 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 10 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 1 to 5 mass % in another embodimentof the present invention, and 2 to 4 mass % in another embodiment of thepresent invention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention.

In an embodiment in which the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a high Tni, the amount of the compoundrepresented by Formula (V-2) is preferably adjusted to be larger; in anembodiment in which the liquid crystal composition needs to have a lowviscosity, the amount thereof is preferably adjusted to be smaller.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-2) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (V-2-1).

In General Formula (V-2-1), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V-2-1) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 1 mass% to 10 mass %, also preferably 2 mass % to 10 mass %, and alsopreferably 2 mass % to 5 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-2-1) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (23.1) to (23.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (23.1) and/or the compound represented by Formula(23.2) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (V-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (V-2-2).

In General Formula (V-2-2), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V-2-2) ispreferably in the range of 2 mass % to 16 mass %, also preferably 3 mass% to 13 mass %, and also preferably 4 mass % to 10 mass % relative tothe total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-2-2) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (24.1) to (24.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (24.1) and/or the compound represented by Formula(24.2) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (V) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (V-3).

In General Formula (V-3), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three or more of thecompounds are used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V-3) ispreferably in the range of 2 mass % to 16 mass %, also preferably 4 mass% to 16 mass %, also preferably 7 mass % to 13 mass %, and alsopreferably 8 mass % to 11 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-3) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby Formulae (25.1) to (25.3).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (V), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (V-4).

In General Formula (V-4), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V-4) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 2 mass% to 15 mass %, also preferably 3 mass % to 10 mass %, and alsopreferably 4 mass % to 8 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V-4) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby Formulae (25.11) to (25.13), and more preferably the compoundrepresented by Formula (25.13).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (L), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (V′-5).

In General Formula (V′-5), R⁵¹ and R⁵² each independently represent analkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (V′-5) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 2 mass% to 15 mass %, also preferably 2 mass % to 10 mass %, and alsopreferably 5 mass % to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (V′-5) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (25.21) to (25.24); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (25.21) and/or the compound represented byFormula (25.23) are preferred.

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention can furthercontain at least one of compounds represented by General Formula (VI).

In General Formula (VI), R⁶¹ and R⁶² each independently represent alinear alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy grouphaving 1 to 10 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 2 to 10carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; on the basis of theintended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and birefringence, it is preferredthat one to three of such compounds be used, it is more preferred thatone to four of the compounds be used, and it is especially preferredthat one to five or more of the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (VI) ispreferably in the range of 0 to 35 mass %, also preferably 0 to 25 mass%, and also preferably 0 to 15 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In particular, preferred examples of usable compounds represented byGeneral Formula (VI) include the following compounds.

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention can furthercontain at least one of compounds represented by General Formula (VII).

In General Formula (VII), R⁷¹ and R⁷² each independently represent alinear alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy grouphaving 1 to 10 carbon atoms, or a linear alkenyl group having 4 to 10carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; on the basis of theintended properties such as solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and birefringence, it is preferredthat one to three of such compounds be properly selected and used, it ismore preferred that one to four of the compounds be used, and it isespecially preferred that one to five or more of the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (VII) ispreferably in the range of 0 to 35 mass %, more preferably 0 to 25 mass%, and further preferably 0 to 15 mass % relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In particular, preferred examples of usable compounds represented byGeneral Formula (VII) include the following compounds.

Moreover, the liquid crystal composition of the present invention alsopreferably further contains at least one of compounds represented byGeneral Formula (M).

In General Formula (M), R^(M1) represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8carbon atoms, and one —CH₂— group or two or more —CH₂— groups notadjoining each other in the alkyl group are each independentlyoptionally substituted with —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—;

PM represents 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4;

C^(M1) and C^(M2) each independently represent a group selected from thegroup consisting of

(d) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (of which one —CH₂— group or two or more—CH₂— groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with—O— or —S—) and(e) a 1,4-phenylene group (of which one —CH═ group or two or more —CH═groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with —N═),andthe groups (d) and (e) are each independently optionally substitutedwith a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom;

K^(M1) and K^(M2) each independently represent a single bond, —CH₂CH₂—,(CH₂)₄—, —OCH₂—, —CH₂O—, —OCF₂—, —CF₂O—, —COO—, —OCO—, or —C≡C—;

in the case where PM is 2, 3, or 4 and where K^(M1) is multiple, themultiple K^(M1)'s are the same as or different from each other; in thecase where PM is 2, 3, or 4 and where C^(M2) is multiple, the multipleC^(M2)'s are the same as or different from each other;

X^(M1) and X^(M3) each independently represent a hydrogen atom, achlorine atom, or a fluorine atom; and

X^(M2) represents a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, a chlorine atom, acyano group, a trifluoromethyl group, a fluoromethoxy group, adifluoromethoxy group, a trifluoromethoxy group, or a2,2,2-trifluoroethyl group; where the compound represented by GeneralFormula (M) excludes the compound represented by General Formula (i).

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused. In another embodiment of the present invention, four of thecompounds are used. In another embodiment of the present invention, fiveof the compounds are used. In another embodiment of the presentinvention, six of the compounds are used. In another embodiment of thepresent invention, seven or more of the compounds are used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (M) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (M) is, forexample, in the range of 1 to 70 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 65 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 53 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 31 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 23 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 5 to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 8 to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 20 to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 31 to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 44 to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 51 to 55 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 5 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 8 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 20 to 23 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, and 44 to 53 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute toa high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lowerlimit be low and that the upper limit be low. In the case where theliquid crystal composition of the present invention needs to have a Tnikept at a high level to have a high temperature stability, it ispreferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upperlimit be low. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy for keepingdriving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that the above-mentionedlower limit be high and that the upper limit be high.

In the case where the ring structure bonded to R^(M1) is a phenyl group(aromatic), R^(M1) is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or analkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbon atoms; in the case where the ringstructure bonded to R^(M1) is a saturated ring such as cyclohexane,pyran, or dioxane, R^(M1) is preferably a linear alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, a linear alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or alinear alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition needs to be chemicallystable, it is preferred that the molecules of the compound representedby General Formula (M) be free from a chlorine atom. The amount of achlorine-atom-containing compound in the liquid crystal composition ispreferably in the range of 0 to 5 mass %, also preferably 0 to 3 mass %,also preferably 0 to 1 mass %, and also preferably 0 to 0.5 mass %relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention; and it is also preferred that the liquid crystalcomposition be substantially free from a chlorine-atom-containingcompound. The term “substantially free from a chlorine-atom-containingcompound” refers to that only a compound unavoidably containing achlorine atom, such as a compound generated as an impurity in productionof another compound, is contained in the liquid crystal composition.

The compound represented by General Formula (M) is, for instance,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by General Formula (VIII).

In General Formula (VIII), R⁸ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; X⁸¹ to X⁸⁵ each independentlyrepresent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; and Y⁸ represents afluorine atom or —OCF₃.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three or more of thecompounds are used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (VIII) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (VIII) is, forexample, in the range of 2 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 25 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 20 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 16 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 11 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 2 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 5 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 8 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 11 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 5 to 16 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 5 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, and 8 to 12 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute toa high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lowerlimit be low and that the upper limit be low. In the case where theliquid crystal composition of the present invention needs to have a Tnikept at a high level to have a high temperature stability, it ispreferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upperlimit be low. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy for keepingdriving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that the above-mentionedlower limit be high and that the upper limit be high.

The compound represented by General Formula (VIII) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (VIII-1).

In General Formula (VIII-1), R⁸ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two or more of the compounds areused.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (VIII-1) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (26.1) to (26.4), more preferably thecompound represented by Formula (26.1) and/or the compound representedby Formula (26.2), and further preferably the compound represented byFormula (26.2).

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (26.1) is preferablyin the range of 1 mass % to 20 mass %, more preferably 1 mass % to 15mass %, further preferably 1 mass % to 10 mass %, and especiallypreferably 1 mass % to 7 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. Examples of the especiallypreferred range are as follows: from 1 mass % to 6 mass %, from 1 mass %to 5 mass %, from 1 mass % to 3 mass %, and from 3 mass % to 6 mass %.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (26.2) is preferablyin the range of 1 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 25mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 20 mass %, and also preferably 1mass % to 18 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention in view of solubility at lowtemperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. In particular, for example, apreferred amount is as follows: from 5 mass % to 16 mass %, from 5 mass% to 12 mass %, from 5 mass % to 11 mass %, from 5 mass % to 10 mass %,from 6 mass % to 12 mass %, or from 8 mass % to 11 mass %.

The total amount of the compounds represented by Formulae (26.1) and(26.2) is preferably in the range of 1 to 30 mass %, more preferably 1to 25 mass %, and further preferably 1 to 20 mass % relative to thetotal mass of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.In particular, for example, a preferred amount is as follows: from 1mass % to 16 mass %, from 1 mass % to 12 mass %, from 1 mass % to 11mass %, from 1 mass % to 10 mass %, from 5 mass % to 16 mass %, from 5mass % to 12 mass %, from 5 mass % to 11 mass %, from 5 mass % to 10mass %, or from 8 mass % to 12 mass %.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (VIII) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (VIII-2).

In General Formula (VIII-2), R⁸ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three or more of thecompounds are used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (VIII-2) ispreferably in the range of 2.5 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 8mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 10 mass % to 20 mass %, and alsopreferably 12 mass % to 15 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, and another property.

The compound represented by General Formula (VIII-2) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (27.1) to (27.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (27.2) is preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (VIII) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (VIII-3).

In General Formula (VIII-3), R⁸ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two or more of the compounds areused.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (VIII-3) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (26.11) to (26.14), more preferablythe compound represented by Formula (26.11) and/or the compoundrepresented by Formula (26.12), and further preferably the compoundrepresented by Formula (26.12).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (VIII) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (VIII-4).

In General Formula (VIII-4), R⁸ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (VIII-4) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (VIII-4) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 25 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 2 to 25 mass % in another embodiment, 3 to 20 mass %in another embodiment, 3 to 13 mass % in another embodiment, 3 to 10mass % in another embodiment, and 1 to 5 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (VIII-4),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (26.21) to (26.24), andmore preferably the compound represented by Formula (26.24).

The compound represented by General Formula (M) is, for instance,preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by General Formula (IX), where the compoundrepresented by General Formula (i) is excluded.

In General Formula (IX), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; X⁹¹ and X⁹² each independentlyrepresent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; Y⁹ represents a fluorineatom, a chlorine atom, or —OCF₃; and U⁹ represents a single bond, —COO—,or —CF₂O—.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused. In another embodiment of the present invention, four of thecompounds are used. In another embodiment of the present invention, fiveof the compounds are used. In another embodiment of the presentinvention, six or more of the compounds are used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by General Formula (Ix) needs to beappropriately adjusted on the basis of predetermined properties such assolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, process adaptability, droplet stains, screenburn-in, and dielectric anisotropy.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX) is, forexample, in the range of 1 to 45 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 40 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 35 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 34 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 30 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 2 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention,2 to 34 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 7 to 34mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 24 to 34 mass %in another embodiment of the present invention, 30 to 34 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, 2 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 7 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 24 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 2 to 10 mass % in anotherembodiment of the present invention, 2 to 7 mass % in another embodimentof the present invention, and 7 to 10 mass % in another embodiment ofthe present invention relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute toa high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lowerlimit be low and that the upper limit be low. In the case where theliquid crystal composition of the present invention needs to have a Tnikept at a high level to serve for a reduction in screen burn-in, it ispreferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upperlimit be low. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy for keepingdriving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that the above-mentionedlower limit be high and that the upper limit be high.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (IX-1), where the compoundrepresented by General Formula (i) is excluded.

In General Formula (IX-1), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; X⁹² represents a hydrogen atom or afluorine atom; and Y⁹ represents a fluorine atom or —OCF₃.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds areused. In another embodiment of the present invention, four or more ofthe compounds are used.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-1) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (IX-1-1).

In General Formula (IX-1-1), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, where the compound represented byFormula (i) is excluded.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. In an embodiment of the presentinvention, for example, one of such compounds is used. In anotherembodiment of the present invention, two of the compounds are used. Inanother embodiment of the present invention, three or more of thecompounds are used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-1-1) isadjusted to be appropriate for an embodiment in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-1-1) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 20 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 10 mass % in another embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 9 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention,1 to 4 mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 2 to 9mass % in another embodiment of the present invention, 2 to 4 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention, and 5 to 9 mass % inanother embodiment of the present invention relative to the total massof the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-1-1) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (28.1), (28.2), (28.4), and (28.5); among these,the compound represented by Formula (28.5) is preferred.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (28.5) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, andalso preferably 1 mass % to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property. In particular, a preferred amount isas follows: from 2 mass % to 10 mass %, from 5 mass % to 10 mass %, from2 mass % to 9 mass %, from 2 mass % to 4 mass %, or from 5 mass % to 9mass %.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (IX-1) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-1-2).

In General Formula (IX-1-2), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one to threeof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that one to four ofthe compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-1-2) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 5 mass% to 30 mass %, also preferably 8 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably10 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 14 mass % to 22 mass %, and alsopreferably 16 mass % to 20 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-1-2) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (29.1) to (29.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (29.2) and/or the compound represented by Formula(29.4) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (IX) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2).

In General Formula (IX-2), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; X⁹¹ and X⁹² each independentlyrepresent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; and Y⁹ represents afluorine atom, a chlorine atom, or —OCF₃.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds for an embodiment is determined in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. For example, one of such compoundsis used in an embodiment of the present invention; two of the compoundsare used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used inanother embodiment, four of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment, five of the compounds are used in another embodiment, andsix or more of the compounds are used in another embodiment.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (IX-2-1).

In General Formula (IX-2-1), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one to threeof the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-1) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-1) is,for instance, in the range of 1 to 25 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 15 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 10 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 5 mass% in another embodiment, and 1 to 3 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-1) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (30.1) to (30.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (30.1) and/or the compound represented by Formula(30.2) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2-2).

In General Formula (IX-2-2), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one to threeof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that one to four ofthe compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-2) isadjusted to be appropriate for an embodiment in view of properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-2) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 25 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 20 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 14mass % in another embodiment, 7 to 14 mass % in another embodiment, 10to 14 mass % in another embodiment, and 7 to 10 mass % in anotherembodiment relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-2) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (31.1) to (31.4), more preferably at least onecompound selected from the group consisting of the compounds representedby Formulae (31.2) to (31.4), and further preferably the compoundrepresented by Formula (31.2).

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (31.2) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 25 mass %, alsopreferably 1 mass % to 20 mass %, and also preferably 1 mass % to 15mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention. In particular, for example, a preferred amount isas follows: from 1 mass % to 14 mass %, from 4 mass % to 14 mass %, from10 mass % to 14 mass %, or from 4 mass % to 10 mass %.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (31.4) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, alsopreferably 1 mass % to 5 mass %, and also preferably 2 mass % to 5 mass% relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2-3).

In General Formula (IX-2-3), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one or two ofthe compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-3) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 30 mass %, more preferably 3 mass% to 20 mass %, further preferably 6 mass % to 15 mass %, and furtherpreferably 8 mass % to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-3) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (32.1) to (32.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (32.2) and/or the compound represented by Formula(32.4) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2-4).

In General Formula (IX-2-4), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-4) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 30 mass %, more preferably 3 mass% to 20 mass %, further preferably 6 mass % to 15 mass %, and especiallypreferably 8 mass % to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-4) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (33.1) to (33.6); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (33.1) and/or the compound represented by Formula(33.3) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2-5).

In General Formula (IX-2-5), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds for an embodiment is determined in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. For example, one of such compoundsis used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compoundsare used in another embodiment, three of the compounds are used inanother embodiment, and four or more of the compounds are used inanother embodiment.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-5) isadjusted to be appropriate for an embodiment in view of properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-5) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 40 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 35 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 30 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 8 mass % in another embodiment, 4 to 30 mass% in another embodiment, 8 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, and 4 to8 mass % in another embodiment relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute toa high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lowerlimit be low and that the upper limit be low. In the case where theliquid crystal composition of the present invention needs to have a Tnikept at a high level to serve for a reduction in screen-burn in, it ispreferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low and that the upperlimit be low. In order to increase dielectric anisotropy for keepingdriving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that the above-mentionedlower limit be high and that the upper limit be high.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-5) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (34.1) to (34.7); and more preferably thecompound represented by Formula (34.1), the compound represented byFormula (34.2), the compound represented by Formula (34.3), and/or thecompound represented by Formula (34.5).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (IX) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-3).

In General Formula (IX-3), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; X⁹¹ and X⁹² each independentlyrepresent a hydrogen atom or a fluorine atom; and Y⁹ represents afluorine atom, a chlorine atom, or —OCF₃.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-3) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (IX-3-1).

In General Formula (IX-3-1), R⁹ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one or two ofthe compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-3-1) ispreferably in the range of 3 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 7 mass% to 30 mass %, also preferably 13 mass % to 20 mass %, and alsopreferably 15 mass % to 18 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-3-1) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (35.1) to (35.4), and more preferably thecompound represented by Formula (35.1) and/or the compound representedby Formula (35.2).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (M) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X).

In General Formula (X), X¹⁰¹ to X¹⁰⁴ each independently represent afluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; Y^(n) represents a fluorine atom, achlorine atom, or —OCF₃; Q¹⁰ represents a single bond or —CF₂O—; R^(n)represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl grouphaving 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbonatoms; and A¹⁰¹ and A¹⁰² each independently represent a1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-phenylene group, or any one of groupsrepresented by the following formulae, and a hydrogen atom of the1,4-phenylene group is optionally substituted with a fluorine atom.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined in view of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, birefringence, and anotherproperty. For example, one of such compounds is used in an embodiment ofthe present invention, two of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds are used inanother embodiment, four of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (x) isadjusted to be appropriate for an embodiment in view of properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. The amount of the compound representedby General Formula (X) is, for example, in the range of 1 to 30 mass %in an embodiment of the present invention, 1 to 25 mass % in anotherembodiment, 1 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 15 mass % inanother embodiment, 1 to 10 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 8 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 4 mass % in another embodiment, 2 to 10 mass% in another embodiment, 2 to 8 mass % in another embodiment, 5 to 10mass % in another embodiment, and 5 to 8 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention needs to have a viscosity kept at a low level to contribute toa high response speed, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lowerlimit be low and that the upper limit be low. In the case where theliquid crystal composition needs to serve for a reduction in screenburn-in, it is preferred that the above-mentioned lower limit be low andthat the upper limit be low. In order to increase dielectric anisotropyfor keeping driving voltage at a low level, it is preferred that theabove-mentioned lower limit be high and that the upper limit be high.

The compound represented by General Formula (X), which is used in theliquid crystal composition of the present invention, is preferably anyof compounds represented by General Formula (X-1).

In General Formula (X-1), X¹⁰¹ to X¹⁰³ each independently represent afluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; and R¹⁰ represents an alkyl grouphaving 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms,or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds for an embodiment is determined in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. For example, one of such compoundsis used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compoundsare used in another embodiment of the present invention, three of thecompounds are used in another embodiment, four of the compounds are usedin another embodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used inanother embodiment.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-1) is, forexample, in the range of 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 25 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 20 mass % inanother embodiment, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 10 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 8 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 3 mass% in another embodiment, 1 to 2 mass % in another embodiment, 2 to 8mass % in another embodiment, and 2 to 3 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (X-1), which is used in theliquid crystal composition of the present invention, is preferably anyof compounds represented by General Formula (X-1-1).

In General Formula (X-1-1), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined in view of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, birefringence, and anotherproperty. For instance, one of such compounds is used in an embodimentof the present invention, two of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds are used inanother embodiment, and four or more of the compounds are used inanother embodiment.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-1) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-1) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 25 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 20 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 10mass % in another embodiment, and 1 to 5 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-1),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (36.1) to (36.4); amongthese, the compound represented by Formula (36.1) and/or the compoundrepresented by Formula (36.2) are preferably employed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X-1), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-1-2).

In General Formula (X-1-2), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-2) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and another property.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-2) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 20 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 10 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 6 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 4 mass% in another embodiment, and 1 to 3 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-2),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (37.1) to (37.4); amongthese, the compound represented by Formula (37.2) is preferablyemployed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X-1), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-1-3).

In General Formula (X-1-3), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-3) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and another property.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-3) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 20 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 10 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 8 mass % in another embodiment, and 1 to 5mass % in another embodiment relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

Moreover, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula(X-1-3) is, for instance, in the range of 3 to 20 mass % in anembodiment of the present invention, 5 to 20 mass % in anotherembodiment, and 5 to 15 mass % in another embodiment relative to thetotal mass of the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-1-3),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (38.1) to (38.4); amongthese, the compound represented by Formula (38.2) is preferablyemployed.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (38.2) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, alsopreferably 1 mass % to 10 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 8 mass %,also preferably 3 mass % to 5 mass %, and also preferably 4 mass % to 5mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-2).

In General Formula (X-2), X¹⁰² and X¹⁰³ each independently represent afluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; Y¹⁰ represents a fluorine atom, achlorine atom, or —OCF₃; and R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The compound represented by General Formula (X-2), which is used in theliquid crystal composition of the present invention, is preferably anyof compounds represented by General Formula (X-2-1).

In General Formula (X-2-1), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination. In view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that at least oneof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that at least threeof the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-2-1) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass% to 16 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 12 mass %, and alsopreferably 1 mass % to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property. In particular, the amount of thecompound represented by General Formula (X-2-1) is preferably from 1 to5 mass %, and also preferably 1 to 3 mass % relative to the total massof the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-2-1),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (39.1) to (39.4); amongthese, the compound represented by Formula (39.2) is preferablyemployed.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (39.2) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 16 mass %, alsopreferably 1 mass % to 12 mass %, and also preferably 3 mass % to 10mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention. In particular, the amount of the compoundrepresented by Formula (39.2) is preferably from 1 to 5 mass %, alsopreferably 1 to 3 mass %, also preferably 5 to 10 mass %, and alsopreferably 6 to 9 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X-2), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-2-2).

In General Formula (X-2-2), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-2-2) ispreferably in the range of 3 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 6 mass% to 16 mass %, also preferably 9 mass % to 12 mass %, and alsopreferably 9 mass % to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-2-2),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (40.1) to (40.4); amongthese, the compound represented by Formula (40.2) is preferablyemployed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-3).

In General Formula (X-3), X¹⁰² and X¹⁰³ each independently represent afluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; and R¹⁰ represents an alkyl grouphaving 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms,or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination. In view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The compound represented by General Formula (X-3), which is used in theliquid crystal composition of the present invention, is preferably anyof compounds represented by General Formula (X-3-1).

In General Formula (X-3-1), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-3-1) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and another property.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-3-1) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 10 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 8 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 6 mass % inanother embodiment, 1 to 4 mass % in another embodiment, and 1 to 2 mass% in another embodiment relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-3-1),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (41.1) to (41.4); amongthese, the compound represented by Formula (41.2) is preferablyemployed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-4).

In General Formula (X-4), X¹⁰² represents a fluorine atom or a hydrogenatom; and R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, analkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that at least oneof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that at least threeof the compounds be used.

The compound represented by General Formula (X-4), which is used in theliquid crystal composition of the present invention, is preferably anyof compounds represented by General Formula (X-4-1).

In General Formula (X-4-1), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that at least oneof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that at least threeof the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-4-1) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and another property.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-4-1) ispreferably in the range of 2 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 5 mass% to 17 mass %, also preferably 10 mass % to 15 mass %, and alsopreferably 10 mass % to 13 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-4-1),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (42.1) to (42.4); amongthese, the compound represented by Formula (42.3) is preferablyemployed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-4-2).

In General Formula (X-4-2), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that at least oneof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that at least threeof the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-4-2) ispreferably in the range of 2 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 5 mass% to 17 mass %, also preferably 10 mass % to 15 mass %, and alsopreferably 10 mass % to 13 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-4-2),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (42.11) to (42.14), andmore preferably the compound represented by Formula (42.13) and/or thecompound represented by Formula (42.14).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-4-3).

In General Formula (X-4-3), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that at least oneof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that at least threeof the compounds be used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-4-3) ispreferably in the range of 2 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 5 mass% to 17 mass %, also preferably 10 mass % to 15 mass %, and alsopreferably 10 mass % to 13 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-4-3),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (42.21) to (42.24), andmore preferably the compound represented by Formula (42.22).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-5).

In General Formula (X-5), X¹⁰² represents a fluorine atom or a hydrogenatom; and R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, analkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxy group having 1 to4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that at least oneof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that at least threeof the compounds be used.

The compound represented by General Formula (X-5) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (X-5-1).

In General Formula (X-5-1), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that at least oneof the compounds be used, and it is more preferred that at least threeof the compounds be used.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-5-1) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (43.1) to (43.4); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (43.2) is preferably employed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-6).

In General Formula (X-6), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-6) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-6) is, forexample, in the range of 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 25 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 20 mass % inanother embodiment, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 12 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 9 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 8 mass% in another embodiment, 1 to 2 mass % in another embodiment, 3 to 30mass % in another embodiment, 5 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 5 to25 mass % in another embodiment, 5 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 5to 11 mass % in another embodiment, and 5 to 8 mass % in anotherembodiment relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-6) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (44.1) to (44.4); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (44.1) and/or the compound representedby Formula (44.2) are preferably employed.

The compound represented by General Formula (M), which can be containedin the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, may be anyof compounds which are represented by General Formula (X′-7) and whichare analogous to the compound represented by General Formula (X).

In General Formula (X′-7), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X′-7) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X′-7) is, forexample, in the range of 4 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 5 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 6 to 30 mass % inanother embodiment, 8 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 9 to 30 mass %in another embodiment, 11 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 14 to 30mass % in another embodiment, and 18 to 30 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

Moreover, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula(X′-7) is, for instance, in the range of 4 to 20 mass % in an embodimentof the present invention, 4 to 13 mass % in another embodiment, 4 to 10mass % in another embodiment, and 4 to 7 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (x′-7), whichis used in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (44.11) to (44.14), and morepreferably the compound represented by Formula (44.13).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (X-8).

In General Formula (X-8), R¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-8) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-8) is, forexample, in the range of 1 to 25 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 15 mass % inanother embodiment, 1 to 10 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 5 mass %in another embodiment, and 1 to 3 mass % in another embodiment relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (X-8) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (44.21) to (44.24); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (44.22) is preferably employed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (XI).

In General Formula (XI), X¹¹¹ to X¹¹⁷ each independently represent afluorine atom or a hydrogen atom, and at least one of X¹¹¹ to X¹¹⁷represents a fluorine atom; R¹¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and Y¹¹ represents a fluorine atom or—OCF₃.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; for example, in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, and another property, one of the compoundsis preferably used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of thecompounds are preferably used in another embodiment, and three or moreof the compounds are preferably used in another embodiment.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XI) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XI) is, forexample, in the range of 1 to 25 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 11 mass % inanother embodiment, 1 to 8 mass % in another embodiment, 3 to 25 mass %in another embodiment, 5 to 25 mass % in another embodiment, 5 to 20mass % in another embodiment, 5 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 5 to11 mass % in another embodiment, and 5 to 8 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention is used in a liquid crystal display device having a small cellgap, the appropriate amount of the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XI) is at a higher level. In the case where the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention is used in a liquid crystal displaydevice which is driven at a small driving voltage, the appropriateamount of the compound represented by General Formula (XI) is at ahigher level. In the case where the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention is used in a liquid crystal display device which isused in a low-temperature environment, the appropriate amount of thecompound represented by General Formula (XI) is at a lower level. In thecase where the liquid crystal composition is used in a liquid crystaldisplay device which quickly responds, the appropriate amount of thecompound represented by General Formula (XI) is at a lower level.

The compound represented by General Formula (XI), which is used in theliquid crystal composition of the present invention, is preferably anyof compounds represented by General Formula (XI-1).

In General Formula (XI-1), R¹¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds for an embodiment can be determined in view of solubilityat low temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. For example, one of the compoundsis used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compoundsare used in another embodiment, and three or more of the compounds areused in another embodiment.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XI-1) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 2 mass% to 20 mass %, and also preferably 2 mass % to 15 mass % relative tothe total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention in view of solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and another property. In particular,the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XI-1) ispreferably from 2 to 12 mass %, also preferably 2 to 8 mass %, alsopreferably 3 to 15 mass %, also preferably 3 to 13 mass %, and alsopreferably 5 to 8 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XI-1), whichis used in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (45.1) to (45.4); among these, atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of the compoundsrepresented by Formulae (45.2) to (45.4) is preferably used, and thecompound represented by Formula (45.2) is more preferably used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (45.2) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 2 mass % to 20 mass %, alsopreferably 2 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 2 mass % to 10 mass %,also preferably 2 mass % to 7 mass %, and also preferably 2 mass % to 5mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention in view of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and another property.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (45.3) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, alsopreferably 1 mass % to 10 mass %, also preferably 2 mass % to 9 mass %,also preferably 2 mass % to 5 mass %, and also preferably 2 mass % to 4mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention in view of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and another property.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (45.4) is preferably in the rangeof 1 mass % to 20 mass %, more preferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, furtherpreferably 1 mass % to 10 mass %, and especially preferably 2 mass % to10 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention in view of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and another property.Examples of the especially preferred range are as follows: from 4 mass %to 10 mass %, from 5 mass % to 10 mass %, from 2 mass % to 7 mass %,from 2 mass % to 6 mass %, and from 5 mass % to 7 mass %.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XI), which is used in the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention, is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XI-2).

In General Formula (XI-2), R¹¹⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds for an embodiment is determined in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. For example, one of the compoundsis used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compoundsare used in another embodiment, and three or more of the compounds areused in another embodiment.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XI-2) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 3 mass% to 20 mass %, also preferably 4 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 6mass % to 15 mass %, and also preferably 9 mass % to 12 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention in view of solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XI-2), whichis used in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (45.11) to (45.14); among these, atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of the compoundsrepresented by Formulae (45.12) to (45.14) is preferably used, and thecompound represented by Formula (45.12) is more preferably used.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (X) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (XII).

In General Formula (XII), X¹²¹ to X¹²⁶ each independently represent afluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; R¹²⁰ represents an alkyl group having1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and Y¹² represents a fluorineatom or —OCF₃.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one to threeor more of the compounds be appropriately used, and it is more preferredthat one to four or more of the compounds be appropriately used.

The compound represented by General Formula (XII), which is used in theliquid crystal composition of the present invention, is preferably anyof compounds represented by General Formula (XII-1).

In General Formula (XII-1), R¹²⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one or two ormore of the compounds be appropriately used, and it is more preferredthat one to three or more of the compounds be appropriately used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XII-1) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 2 mass% to 10 mass %, also preferably 3 mass % to 8 mass %, and alsopreferably 4 mass % to 6 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andanother property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XII-1),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (46.1) to (46.4); amongthese, at least one compound selected from the group consisting of thecompounds represented by Formulae (46.2) to (46.4) is preferably used.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XII) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XII-2).

In General Formula (XII-2), R¹²⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one or two ormore of the compounds be appropriately used, and it is more preferredthat one to three or more of the compounds be appropriately used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XII-2) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 3 mass% to 20 mass %, also preferably 4 mass % to 17 mass %, also preferably 6mass % to 15 mass %, and also preferably 9 mass % to 13 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention in view of solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XII-2),which is used in the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention, is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by Formulae (47.1) to (47.4); amongthese, at least one compound selected from the group consisting of thecompounds represented by Formulae (47.2) to (47.4) is preferably used.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (M) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (XIII).

In General Formula (XIII), X¹³¹ to X¹³⁵ each independently represent afluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; R¹³⁰ represents an alkyl group having1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and Y¹³ represents a fluorineatom or —OCF₃.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; one or two of thecompounds are preferably used, one to three of the compounds are morepreferably used, and one to four of the compounds are further preferablyused.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIII) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIII) is, forexample, in the range of 2 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 4 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 5 to 30 mass % inanother embodiment, 7 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 9 to 30 mass %in another embodiment, 11 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 13 to 30mass % in another embodiment, 14 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 16to 30 mass % in another embodiment, and 20 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

Moreover, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula(XIII) is, for instance, in the range of 2 to 25 mass % in an embodimentof the present invention, 2 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 2 to 15mass % in another embodiment, 2 to 10 mass % in another embodiment, and2 to 5 mass % in another embodiment relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention is used in a liquid crystal display device having a small cellgap, the appropriate amount of the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIII) is at a higher level. In the case where the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention is used in a liquid crystaldisplay device which is driven at a small driving voltage, theappropriate amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIII)is at a higher level. In the case where the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention is used in a liquid crystal display devicewhich is used in a low-temperature environment, the appropriate amountof the compound represented by General Formula (XIII) is at a lowerlevel. In the case where the liquid crystal composition is used in aliquid crystal display device which quickly responds, the appropriateamount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIII) is at alower level.

The compound represented by General Formula (XIII) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (XIII-1).

In General Formula (XIII-1), R¹³⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIII-1) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 3 mass% to 25 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 20 mass %, and alsopreferably 10 mass % to 15 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (XIII-1) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (48.1) to (48.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (48.2) is preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIII) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIII-2).

In General Formula (XIII-2), R¹³⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; at least one of thecompounds is preferably used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIII-2) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 1 mass% to 20 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, and alsopreferably 3 mass % to 14 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention. In particular, theamount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIII-2) ispreferably in the range of 3 mass % to 10 mass %, also preferably 3 mass% to 6 mass %, also preferably 6 mass % to 14 mass %, and alsopreferably 10 mass % to 14 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (XIII-2) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (49.1) to (49.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (49.1) and/or the compound represented by Formula(49.2) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIII) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIII-3).

In General Formula (XIII-3), R¹³⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; one or two of thecompounds are preferably used.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIII-3) ispreferably in the range of 2 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 4 mass% to 20 mass %, also preferably 9 mass % to 17 mass %, and alsopreferably 11 mass % to 14 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (XIII-3) is preferably atleast one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (50.1) to (50.4); among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (50.1) and/or the compound represented by Formula(50.2) are preferred.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (M) is preferably at least one compound selected from the groupconsisting of compounds represented by General Formula (XIV).

In General Formula (XIV), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 7carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 7 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 7 carbon atoms; X¹⁴¹ to X¹⁴⁴ each independentlyrepresent a fluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; Y¹⁴ represents a fluorineatom, a chlorine atom, or OCF₂; Q¹⁴ represents a single bond, —COO—, or—CF₂O—; and m¹⁴ represents 0 or 1.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds for an embodiment is determined in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. For example, one of the compoundsis used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compoundsare used in another embodiment of the present invention, three of thecompounds are used in another embodiment of the present invention, fourof the compounds are used in another embodiment of the presentinvention, five of the compounds are used in another embodiment of thepresent invention, and six or more of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment of the present invention.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV) is, forexample, in the range of 1 to 30 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 25 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 20 mass % inanother embodiment, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 3 to 30 mass %in another embodiment, 5 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 7 to 30mass % in another embodiment, 9 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 9 to25 mass % in another embodiment, 9 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 9to 15 mass % in another embodiment, and 9 to 11 mass % in anotherembodiment relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention is used in a liquid crystal display device which is driven ata small driving voltage, the appropriate amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (XIV) is at a higher level. In the casewhere the liquid crystal composition is used in a liquid crystal displaydevice which quickly responds, the appropriate amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (XIV) is at a lower level.

The compound represented by General Formula (XIV) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (XIV-1).

In General Formula (XIV-1), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 7carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 7 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 7 carbon atoms; and Y¹⁴ represents a fluorine atom, achlorine atom, or —OCF₃.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, it is preferred that one to threeof the compounds be used.

The compound represented by General Formula (XIV-1) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (XIV-1-1).

In General Formula (XIV-1-1), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to7 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 7 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 7 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-1) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, and another property.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-1) is,for example, in the range of 2 mass % to 30 mass % in an embodiment ofthe present invention, 4 mass % to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 7mass % to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 10 mass % to 30 mass % inanother embodiment, and 18 mass % to 30 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

Moreover, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula(XIV-1) is, for instance, in the range of 2 mass % to 27 mass % in anembodiment of the present invention, 2 mass % to 24 mass % in anotherembodiment, and 2 mass % or more and less than 21 mass % in anotherembodiment relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-1-1) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (51.1) to (51.4), and more preferablythe compound represented by Formula (51.1).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-1) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-1-2).

In General Formula (XIV-1-2), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to7 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 7 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 7 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-1-2) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 3 mass% to 13 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 11 mass %, and alsopreferably 7 mass % to 9 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andanother property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-1-2) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (52.1) to (52.4); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (52.4) is preferably used.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIV) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2).

In General Formula (XIV-2), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; X¹⁴¹ to X¹⁴⁴ each independentlyrepresent a fluorine atom or a hydrogen atom; and Y¹⁴ represents afluorine atom, a chlorine atom, or —OCF₃.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds for an embodiment is determined in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. For example, one of such compoundsis used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compoundsare used in another embodiment of the present invention, three of thecompounds are used in another embodiment of the present invention, fourof the compounds are used in another embodiment of the presentinvention, and five or more of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment of the present invention.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2) is,for example, in the range of 3 to 40 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 7 to 40 mass % in another embodiment, 8 to 40 mass %in another embodiment, 10 to 40 mass % in another embodiment, 11 to 40mass % in another embodiment, 12 to 40 mass % in another embodiment, 18to 40 mass % in another embodiment, 19 to 40 mass % in anotherembodiment, 21 to 40 mass % in another embodiment, and 22 to 40 mass %in another embodiment relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition of the present invention.

Moreover, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula(XIV-2) is, for instance, in the range of 3 to 35 mass % in anembodiment of the present invention, 3 to 25 mass % in anotherembodiment, 3 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 3 to 15 mass % inanother embodiment, and 3 to 10 mass % in another embodiment relative tothe total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention is used in a liquid crystal display device which is driven ata small driving voltage, the appropriate amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (XIV-2) is at a higher level. In the casewhere the liquid crystal composition is used in a liquid crystal displaydevice which quickly responds, the appropriate amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (XIV-2) is at a lower level.

The compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (XIV-2-1).

In General Formula (XIV-2-1), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-1) ispreferably in the range of 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 3 mass% to 13 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 11 mass %, and alsopreferably 7 mass % to 9 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andanother property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-1) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (53.1) to (53.4); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (53.4) is preferably employed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2-2).

In General Formula (XIV-2-2), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-2) ispreferably in the range of 3 mass % to 20 mass %, also preferably 6 mass% to 17 mass %, also preferably 6 mass % to 15 mass %, and alsopreferably 8 mass % to 10 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-2) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (54.1) to (54.4); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (54.2) and/or the compound representedby Formula (54.4) are preferably used.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, the amountof the compound represented by Formula (54.2) is preferably in the rangeof 5 mass % to 35 mass %, also preferably 5 mass % to 25 mass %, alsopreferably 5 mass % to 22 mass %, also preferably 6 mass % to 20 mass %,also preferably 6 mass % to 15 mass %, and also preferably 6 mass % to 9mass % relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2-3).

In General Formula (XIV-2-3), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-3) ispreferably in the range of 5 mass % to 30 mass %, also preferably 9 mass% to 27 mass %, also preferably 12 mass % to 24 mass %, and alsopreferably 12 mass % to 20 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-3) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (55.1) to (55.4); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (55.2) and/or the compound representedby Formula (55.4) are preferably used.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2-4).

In General Formula (XIV-2-4), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds for an embodiment is determined in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property. For example, one of such compoundsis used in an embodiment of the present invention, two of the compoundsare used in another embodiment of the present invention, and three ormore of the compounds are used in another embodiment of the presentinvention.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-4) isadjusted to be appropriate for an embodiment on the basis of propertiessuch as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-4) is,for example, in the range of 1 to 20 mass % in an embodiment of thepresent invention, 1 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 3 to 15 mass %in another embodiment, 5 to 15 mass % in another embodiment, 7 to 15mass % in another embodiment, and 9 to 11 mass % in another embodimentrelative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of thepresent invention.

In the case where the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention is used in a liquid crystal display device which is driven ata small driving voltage, the appropriate amount of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (XIV-2-4) is at a higher level. In thecase where the liquid crystal composition is used in a liquid crystaldisplay device which quickly responds, the appropriate amount of thecompound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-4) is at a lower level.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-4) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (56.1) to (56.4); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (56.1), the compound represented byFormula (56.2), and/or the compound represented by Formula (56.4) arepreferably used.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2-5).

In General Formula (XIV-2-5), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-5) ispreferably in the range of 5 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 10mass % to 22 mass %, also preferably 13 mass % to 18 mass %, and alsopreferably 13 mass % to 15 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-5) isat least one compound selected from the group consisting of compoundsrepresented by Formulae (57.1) to (57.4). Among these, the compoundrepresented by Formula (57.1) is preferably employed.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-2-6).

In General Formula (XIV-2-6), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to5 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or analkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-6) ispreferably in the range of 5 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 10mass % to 22 mass %, also preferably 15 mass % to 20 mass %, and alsopreferably 15 mass % to 17 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-2-6) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (58.1) to (58.4); among these, thecompound represented by Formula (58.2) is preferably used.

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XIV) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XIV-3).

In General Formula (XIV-3), R¹⁴⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined on the basis of the intended properties suchas solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. For example, one of such compounds isused in an embodiment of the present invention, and two or more of thecompounds are used in another embodiment of the present invention.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-3) ispreferably in the range of 2.5 mass % to 25 mass %, also preferably 3mass % to 15 mass %, and also preferably 3 mass % to 10 mass % relativeto the total mass of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention in view of solubility at low temperature, transitiontemperature, electric reliability, birefringence, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XIV-3) ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (61.1) to (61.4), and more preferablythe compound represented by Formula (61.1) and/or the compoundrepresented by Formula (61.2).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (M) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XV).

In General Formula (XV), R¹⁵⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and A¹⁵¹ represents a1,4-cyclohexylene group or a 1,4-phenylene group, and a hydrogen atom ofthe 1,4-phenylene group is optionally substituted with a fluorine atom.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; a proper combination ofthe compounds is determined in view of solubility at low temperature,transition temperature, electric reliability, birefringence, and anotherproperty. For instance, one of such compounds is used in an embodimentof the present invention, two of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment of the present invention, three of the compounds are used inanother embodiment, four of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment, and five or more of the compounds are used in anotherembodiment.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XV) isadjusted to be appropriate for an embodiment on the basis of propertiessuch as solubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, and birefringence. The amount of the compound representedby General Formula (XV) is, for example, in the range of 0.5 to 30 mass% in an embodiment of the present invention, 1 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment, 3 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 6 to 30 mass % inanother embodiment, 9 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 11 to 30 mass% in another embodiment, 12 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 18 to 30mass % in another embodiment, 19 to 30 mass % in another embodiment, 23to 30 mass % in another embodiment, and 25 to 30 mass % in anotherembodiment relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention.

Furthermore, the amount of the compound represented by General Formula(XV) is, for instance, in the range of 0.5 to 25 mass % in an embodimentof the present invention, 0.5 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 0.5 to13 mass % in another embodiment, 0.5 to 9 mass % in another embodiment,and 1 to 6 mass % in another embodiment relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

The compound represented by General Formula (XV), which is used in theliquid crystal composition of the present invention, is preferably anyof compounds represented by General Formula (XV-1).

In General Formula (XV-1), R¹⁵⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XV-1) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XV-1) is, forexample, in the range of 1 to 25 mass % in an embodiment of the presentinvention, 1 to 20 mass % in another embodiment, 1 to 10 mass % inanother embodiment, 3 to 10 mass % in another embodiment, 4 to 7 mass %in another embodiment, 1 to 5 mass % in another embodiment, and 5 to 10mass % in another embodiment relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XV-1), whichis used in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (59.1) to (59.4), and more preferablythe compound represented by Formula (59.2).

Alternatively or additionally, the compound represented by GeneralFormula (XV) is preferably any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (XV-2).

In General Formula (XV-2), R¹⁵⁰ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkoxygroup having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

Such compounds can be used in any combination; in view of solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability,birefringence, and another property, the compounds are preferably usedalone or in combination.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XV-2) isappropriately adjusted on the basis of properties such as solubility atlow temperature, transition temperature, electric reliability, andbirefringence.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XV-2) is, forinstance, preferably in the range of 0.5 mass % to 20 mass %, alsopreferably 1 mass % to 15 mass %, also preferably 1 mass % to 10 mass %,and also preferably 1 mass % to 4 mass % relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition of the present invention in view ofsolubility at low temperature, transition temperature, electricreliability, birefringence, and another property.

In particular, the compound represented by General Formula (XV-2), whichis used in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, ispreferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting ofcompounds represented by Formulae (60.1) to (60.4), and more preferablythe compound represented by Formula (60.2).

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention is preferablyfree from a compound having a molecular structure in which oxygen atomsare bonded to each other, such as the structure of a peroxy acid(—CO—OO—).

In terms of the reliability and long-term stability of the liquidcrystal composition, the amount of a compound having a carbonyl group ispreferably not more than 5 mass %, more preferably not more than 3 mass%, and further preferably not more than 1 mass % relative to the totalmass of the composition. It is most preferred that the composition besubstantially free from such a compound.

In terms of stability to irradiation with UV, the amount of a compoundsubstituted with a chlorine atom is preferably not more than 15 mass %,more preferably not more than 10 mass %, and further preferably not morethan 5 mass % relative to the total mass of the composition. It is mostpreferred that the composition be substantially free from such acompound.

The amount of compounds having molecules in which all of the ringstructures are six-membered rings is preferably adjusted to be large.The amount of such compounds having molecules in which all of the ringstructures are six-membered rings is preferably not less than 80 mass %,more preferably not less than 90 mass %, and further preferably not lessthan 95 mass % relative to the total mass of the composition. It is mostpreferred that the liquid crystal composition be substantially composedof only the compounds having molecules in which all of the ringstructures are six-membered rings.

In order to suppress degradation of the liquid crystal composition dueto oxidation thereof, the amount of a compound having a cyclohexenylenegroup that is a ring structure is preferably reduced. The amount of acompound having a cyclohexenylene group is preferably not more than 10mass %, and more preferably not more than 5 mass % relative to the totalmass of the composition. It is further preferred that the liquid crystalcomposition be substantially free from such a compound.

In terms of improvements in viscosity and Tni, the amount of a compoundof which the molecules each contain a 2-methylbenzene-1,4-diyl group inwhich a hydrogen atom is optionally substituted with a halogen ispreferably reduced. The amount of the compound of which the moleculeseach contain such a 2-methylbenzene-1,4-diyl group is preferably notmore than 10 mass %, and more preferably not more than 5 mass % relativeto the total mass of the composition. It is further preferred that thecomposition be substantially free from such a compound.

In the case where a compound contained in the composition of the firstembodiment of the present invention has a side chain that is an alkenylgroup, the alkenyl group preferably has 2 to 5 carbon atoms if thealkenyl group is bonded to cyclohexane, or the alkenyl group preferablyhas 4 or 5 carbon atoms if the alkenyl group is bonded to benzene. Theunsaturated bond of the alkenyl group is preferably not directlyconnected to the benzene.

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention can contain apolymerizable compound for production of a liquid crystal display deviceof a PS mode, a PSA mode involving use of a horizontal electric field,or a PSVA mode involving use of a horizontal electric field. Examples ofa usable polymerizable compound include photopolymerizable monomerswhich are polymerized by being irradiated with energy rays such aslight; in particular, examples of the polymerizable compound includepolymerizable compounds having a structure with a liquid crystalmolecular framework in which multiple six-membered rings are bonded toeach other, such as biphenyl derivatives and terphenyl derivatives.Specifically, the polymerizable compound is preferably any ofdifunctional monomers represented by General Formula (XX).

In General Formula (XX), X²⁰¹ and X²⁰² each independently represent ahydrogen atom or a methyl group;

Sp²⁰¹ and Sp²⁰² each independently represent a single bond, an alkylenegroup having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, or —O—(CH₂)_(s)— (where s representsan integer from 2 to 7, and the oxygen atom is bonded to an aromaticring);

Z²⁰¹ represents —OCH₂—, —CH₂—, —COO—, —OCO—, —CF₂O—, —OCF₂—, —CH₂CH₂—,—CF₂CF₂—, —CH═CH—COO—, —CH═CH—OCO—, —COO—CH═CH—, —OCO—CH═CH—,—COO—CH₂CH₂—, —OCO—CH₂CH₂—, —CH₂CH₂—COO—, —CH₂CH₂—OCO—, —COO—CH₂—,—OCO—CH₂—, —CH₂—COO—, —CH₂—OCO—, —CY¹═CY²—(where Y¹ and Y² eachindependently represent a fluorine atom or a hydrogen atom), —C≡C—, or asingle bond; and

M²⁰¹ represents a 1,4-phenylene group, a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group,or a single bond, and in each 1,4-phenylene group in the formula, anyhydrogen atom is optionally substituted with a fluorine atom.

Diacrylate derivatives in which X²⁰¹ and X²⁰² each represent a hydrogenatom and dimethacrylate derivatives in which X²⁰¹ and X²⁰² are each amethyl group are preferred, and compounds in which one of X²⁰¹ and X²⁰²represents a hydrogen atom and in which the other one thereof representsa methyl group are also preferred. Among these compounds, the rate ofpolymerization is the highest in diacrylate derivatives and the lowestin dimethacrylate derivatives, and the rate of polymerization ofunsymmetrical compounds is intermediate therebetween. Hence, anappropriate compound can be employed on the basis of the intendedapplication. In PSA display devices, dimethacrylate derivatives areespecially preferred.

Sp²⁰¹ and Sp²⁰² each independently represent a single bond, an alkylenegroup having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, or —O—(CH₂)_(s)—; in an application toPSA display devices, at least one of Sp²⁰¹ and Sp²⁰² is preferably asingle bond, and compounds in which Sp²⁰¹ and Sp²⁰² each represent asingle bond and compounds in which one of Sp²⁰¹ and Sp²⁰² is a singlebond and in which the other one thereof represents an alkylene grouphaving 1 to 8 carbon atoms or —O—(CH₂)_(s)— are preferred. In this case,an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms is preferably employed, and spreferably ranges from 1 to 4.

Z²⁰¹ is preferably —OCH₂—, —CH₂O—, —COO—, —OCO—, —CF₂O—, —OCF₂—,—CH₂CH₂—, —CF₂CF₂—, or a single bond; more preferably —COO—, —OCO—, or asingle bond; and especially preferably a single bond.

M²⁰¹ represents a 1,4-phenylene group in which any hydrogen atom isoptionally substituted with a fluorine atom, a trans-1,4-cyclohexylenegroup, or a single bond; and a 1,4-phenylene group and a single bond arepreferred. In the case where M²⁰¹ does not represent a single bond butrepresents a ring structure, Z²⁰¹ preferably does not represent a singlebond but represents a linking group; in the case where M²⁰¹ represents asingle bond, Z²⁰¹ is preferably a single bond.

From these viewpoints, a preferred ring structure between Sp²⁰¹ andSp²⁰² in General Formula (XX) is particularly as follows.

In General Formula (XX), in the case where M²⁰¹ represents a single bondand where the ring structure consists of two rings, the ring structureis preferably represented by any of Formulae (XXa-1) to (XXa-5), morepreferably Formulae (XXa-1) to (XXa-3), and especially preferablyFormula (XXa-1).

In Formulae (XXa-1) to (XXa-5), the two ends of each structure areconnected to Sp²⁰¹ and Sp²⁰², respectively.

Since polymerizable compounds having such skeletons have an optimumalignment regulating force for PSA liquid crystal display devices afterbeing polymerized and thus produce a good alignment state, suchpolymerizable compounds enable uneven display to be reduced oreliminated.

Accordingly, the polymerizable monomer is preferably at least onecompound selected from the group consisting of compounds represented byGeneral Formulae (XX-1) to (XX-4), and more preferably the compoundrepresented by General Formula (XX-2).

In General Formulae (XX-3) and (XX-4), Sp²⁰ represents an alkylene grouphaving 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

In the case where the monomer is added to the liquid crystal compositionof the present invention, polymerization is carried out even without apolymerization initiator; however, a polymerization initiator may beused to promote the polymerization. Examples of the polymerizationinitiator include benzoin ethers, benzophenones, acetophenones, benzylketals, and acyl phosphine oxides.

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention can furthercontain any of compounds represented by General Formula (Q).

In General Formula (Q), R^(Q) represents a linear or branched alkylgroup having 1 to 22 carbon atoms; at least one CH₂ moiety contained inthe alkyl group is optionally substituted with —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—,—OCO—, —COO—, —C≡C—, —CF₂O—, or —OCF₂— such that oxygen atoms do notdirectly adjoin each other; and M^(Q) represents atrans-1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-phenylene group, or a single bond.

R^(Q) represents a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbonatoms, and at least one CH₂ moiety contained in the alkyl group isoptionally substituted with —O—, —CH═CH—, —CO—, —OCO—, —COO—, —C≡C—,—CF₂O—, or —OCF₂— such that oxygen atoms do not directly adjoin eachother. R^(Q) is preferably a linear alkyl group, a linear alkoxy group,a linear alkyl group of which one CH₂ moiety is substituted with —OCO—or —COO—, a branched alkyl group, a branched alkoxy group, or a branchedalkyl group of which one CH₂ moiety is substituted with —OCO— or —COO—,each group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms; and more preferably a linearalkyl group, a linear alkyl group of which one CH₂ moiety is substitutedwith —OCO— or —COO—, a branched alkyl group, a branched alkoxy group, ora branched alkyl group of which one CH₂ moiety is substituted with —OCO—or —COO—, each group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms.

M^(Q) represents a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group, a 1,4-phenylene group,or a single bond and is preferably a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group or a1,4-phenylene group.

The compound represented by General Formula (Q) is preferably at leastone compound selected from the group consisting of compounds representedby General Formulae (Q-a) to (Q-d), and more preferably the compoundrepresented by General Formula (Q-c) and/or the compound represented byGeneral Formula (Q-d).

In these formulae, R^(Q1) is preferably a linear or branched alkyl grouphaving 1 to 10 carbon atoms, R^(Q2) is preferably a linear or branchedalkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, R^(Q3) is preferably a linearor branched alkyl or alkoxy group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and L^(Q)is preferably a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 8 carbonatoms.

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention preferablycontains one or two compounds represented by General Formula (Q), andmore preferably one to five; the amount thereof is preferably in therange of 0.001 to 1 mass %, also preferably 0.001 to 0.1 mass %, andalso preferably 0.001 to 0.05 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition of the present invention.

A preferred embodiment in which one compound represented by GeneralFormula (ii) is used will now be described.

In an embodiment of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention in which only one type of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (ii) is used, a compound in which both R^(ii1) and R^(ii2) inGeneral Formula (ii) are alkyl groups is preferred; in particular, thecompound represented by Formula (ii.1.1) or the compound represented byFormula (ii.1.2) is preferred.

In this embodiment, the amount of the compound represented by Formula(ii.1.1) or the compound represented by Formula (ii.1.2) is preferablyin the range of 1 to 7 mass %, and more preferably 3 to 5 mass %relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, in the casewhere the compound represented by General Formula (i) is used incombination with the compound represented by Formula (ii.1.1) or thecompound represented by Formula (ii.1.2), the liquid crystal compositionpreferably further contains any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2).

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (IX-2) ispreferably in the range of 10 to 50 mass %, more preferably 20 to 40mass %, and further preferably 25 to 35 mass % relative to the totalmass of the liquid crystal composition.

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (IX-2-5).

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2-5) is preferably thecompound represented by Formula (34.2), the compound represented byFormula (34.3), and/or the compound represented by Formula (34.5).

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (34.2) is preferablyin the range of 9 to 20 mass %, more preferably 9 to 15 mass %, andfurther preferably 9 to 12 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (34.3) is preferablyin the range of 10 to 20 mass %, more preferably 12 to 18 mass %, andfurther preferably 14 to 16 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition.

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (34.5) is preferablyin the range of 1 to 15 mass %, more preferably 2 to 10 mass %, andfurther preferably 3 to 7 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition.

The total amount of the compounds represented by Formulae (34.2),(34.3), and (34.5) is preferably from 80 to 100 mass %, more preferably90 to 100 mass %, and further preferably 95 to 100 mass % relative tothe total mass of all of the compounds represented by General Formula(IX-2) in the liquid crystal composition of the present invention.

Furthermore, the liquid crystal composition preferably contains any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (XIV-2-2). The compoundrepresented by General Formula (XIV-2-2) is preferably the compoundrepresented by Formula (54.2).

The amount of the compound represented by Formula (54.2) is preferablyin the range of 4 to 20 mass %, and more preferably 6 to 15 mass %relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition.

Alternatively or additionally, the liquid crystal composition preferablyfurther contains any of compounds represented by General Formula(II-3-1) and/or any of compounds represented by General Formula (III-2).

The compound represented by General Formula (II-3-1) is preferably thecompound represented by Formula (13.3), and the compound represented byGeneral Formula (III-2) is preferably the compound represented byFormula (17.3).

The total amount of the compound represented by Formula (13.3) and/orthe compound represented by Formula (17.3) is preferably in the range of1 to 10 mass %, and more preferably 2 to 7 mass % relative to the totalmass of the liquid crystal composition.

The preferred composition of the above-mentioned embodiment has all ofthe following properties: being less likely to cause screen burn-in anddroplet stains, greatly reducing contamination of manufacturingequipment, and having very high process adaptability and very goodsolubility at low temperature. Hence, it is an excellent liquid crystalcomposition having very well balanced properties. In particular, thecomposition has an excellent balance between process adaptability andsolubility at low temperature.

In another embodiment of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention in which only one type of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (ii) is used, it is preferred that one of R^(ii1) and R^(ii2) inGeneral Formula (ii) be an alkenyl group and that the other one of thembe an alkyl group; in particular, the compound represented by Formula(ii.2.3) or the compound represented by Formula (ii.2.4) is preferred.

In this embodiment, the amount of the compound represented by Formula(ii.2.3) or the compound represented by Formula (ii.2.4) is preferablyin the range of 1 to 20 mass %, more preferably 5 to 15 mass %, andfurther preferably 8 to 13 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition.

In the liquid crystal composition of the present invention, in the casewhere the compound represented by General Formula (i) is used incombination with the compound represented by Formula (ii.2.3) or thecompound represented by Formula (ii.2.4), the liquid crystal compositionpreferably further contains any of compounds represented by GeneralFormula (IX-2).

The compound represented by General Formula (IX-2) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (IX-2-2), and more preferablythe compound represented by Formula (31.2) or the compound representedby Formula (31.4).

In this embodiment, the amount of the compound represented by Formula(31.2) or (31.4) is preferably in the range of 1 to 10 mass %, and morepreferably 1 to 8 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition.

The total amount of compounds represented by General Formula (IX-2-2) ispreferably in the range of 5 to 15 mass %, more preferably 7 to 12 mass%, and further preferably 8 to 10 mass % relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition.

In this embodiment, the liquid crystal composition preferably furthercontains any of compounds represented by General Formula (XI).

The compound represented by General Formula (XI) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (XI-1), and it is preferredthat at least two compounds represented by General Formula (XI-1) beused.

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (XI-1) ispreferably in the range of 1 to 10 mass %, more preferably 1 to 8 mass%, and further preferably 1 to 6 mass % relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition.

In the case where two compounds represented by General Formula (XI-1)are used, it is preferred that the compound represented by Formula(45.2) and the compound represented by Formula (45.3) be used in amountsof 1 to 2 mass % and 1 to 4 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition, respectively.

In this embodiment, the liquid crystal composition preferably furthercontains any of compounds represented by General Formula (X-6), and morepreferably at least two compounds represented by General Formula (X-6).

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (X-6) ispreferably in the range of 1 to 12 mass %, more preferably 1 to 9 mass%, and further preferably 5 to 9 mass % relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition.

In the case where two compounds represented by General Formula (X-6) areused, it is preferred that the compound represented by Formula (44.1)and the compound represented by Formula (44.2) be used in combination;and the amount of each compound is preferably in the range of 1 to 5mass %, and more preferably 2 to 4 mass % relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition.

Each of the compounds represented by General Formulae (XI-1) and (X-6)is a compound having four ring structures per molecule; the total amountof these compounds is preferably in the range of 5 to 20 mass %, andmore preferably 10 to 15 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition. The total amount of the compounds represented byGeneral Formulae (XI-1) and (X-6) is preferably in the range of 85 to100 mass %, more preferably 90 to 100 mass %, and further preferably 95to 100 mass % relative to the total mass of all of the compounds havingfour ring structures per molecule in the liquid crystal composition.

The preferred composition of the above-mentioned embodiment has all ofthe following properties: being less likely to cause screen burn-in anddroplet stains, greatly reducing contamination of manufacturingequipment, and having very high process adaptability and very goodsolubility at low temperature. Hence, it is an excellent liquid crystalcomposition having very well balanced properties. In particular, thecomposition has an excellent balance between the degree of processadaptability and a reduction in screen burn-in.

A preferred embodiment in which two compounds represented by GeneralFormula (ii) are used will now be described.

In an embodiment of the liquid crystal composition of the presentinvention in which two compounds represented by General Formula (ii) areused, compounds represented by General Formula (ii) in which each ofR^(ii1) and R^(ii2) is an alkyl group are preferably used.

In an embodiment in which two compounds represented by General Formula(ii) are the compound represented by Formula (ii.1.1) or (ii.1.2) andthe compound represented by Formula (ii.1.4) or (ii.1.5), the amount ofthe compound represented by Formula (ii.1.1) or (ii.1.2) is from 1 to 7mass %, and more preferably 2 to 6 mass %; and the amount of thecompound represented by Formula (ii.1.4) or (ii.1.5) is preferably from1 to 5 mass %, and more preferably 2 to 4 mass %, relative to the totalmass of the liquid crystal composition. The total amount of the twocompounds represented by General Formula (ii) is preferably in the rangeof 5 to 15 mass %, and more preferably 8 to 11 mass % relative to thetotal mass of the liquid crystal composition.

In this embodiment, the liquid crystal composition preferably furthercontains at least two of compounds represented by General Formula(I-1-1), compounds represented by General Formula (I-1-2), and/orcompounds represented by General Formula (II-2); and more preferably atleast three of them.

In this embodiment, a preferred compound represented by General Formula(II-2) is the compound represented by Formula (11.1); the amount thereofis preferably from 6 to 10 mass %, and more preferably 6 to 8 mass %relative to the total mass of the liquid crystal composition.

A preferred compound represented by General Formula (I-1-1) is thecompound represented by Formula (1.3); the amount thereof is preferablyfrom 1 to 6 mass %, more preferably 1 to 5 mass %, and furtherpreferably 1 to 3 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition.

A preferred compound represented by General Formula (I-1-2) is thecompound represented by Formula (2.2); the amount thereof is preferablyfrom 1 to 25 mass %, more preferably 5 to 20 mass %, further preferably10 to 20 mass %, and especially preferably 13 to 18 mass % relative tothe total mass of the liquid crystal composition.

In the case where three compounds represented by General Formulae(I-1-1), (I-1-2), and (II-2) are used, the total amount thereof ispreferably in the range of 15 to 35 mass %, more preferably 20 to 30mass %, and further preferably 22 to 27 mass % relative to the totalmass of the liquid crystal composition.

The amount of the compounds represented by Formulae (11.1), (1.3), and(2.2) is preferably in the range of 85 to 100 mass %, more preferably 90to 100 mass %, and further preferably 95 to 100 mass % relative to thetotal mass of all of the compounds represented by General Formulae(I-1-1), (I-1-2), and (II-2) in the liquid crystal composition of theembodiment.

The preferred composition of the above-mentioned embodiment has all ofthe following properties: being less likely to cause screen burn-in anddroplet stains, greatly reducing contamination of manufacturingequipment, and having very high process adaptability and very goodsolubility at low temperature. Hence, it is an excellent liquid crystalcomposition having very well balanced properties. In particular, thecomposition has an excellent balance between the degree of processadaptability and a reduction in screen burn-in.

In another embodiment in which the two compounds represented by GeneralFormula (ii) are the compound represented by Formula (ii.1.1) or(ii.1.2) and the compound represented by Formula (ii.1.6) or (ii.1.7),the amount of the compound represented by Formula (ii.1.1) or (ii.1.2)is preferably in the range of 7 to 20 mass %, more preferably 9 to 13mass %; and the amount of the compound represented by Formula (ii.1.4)or (ii.1.5) is preferably in the range of 4 to 20 mass %, and morepreferably 10 to 18 mass %, relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition. The total amount of the two compounds representedby General Formula (ii) is preferably from 15 to 30 mass %, and morepreferably 20 to 30 mass % relative to the total mass of the liquidcrystal composition.

The liquid crystal composition of this embodiment preferably furthercontains any of compounds represented by General Formula (VIII).

The amount of the compound represented by General Formula (VIII) ispreferably in the range of 1 to 19 mass %, more preferably 5 to 15 mass%, and further preferably 8 to 13 mass % relative to the total mass ofthe liquid crystal composition.

The compound represented by General Formula (VIII) is preferably any ofcompounds represented by General Formula (VIII-1); in particular, thecompound represented by Formula (26.1) or (26.2) is preferred, and thecompound represented by Formula (26.2) is more preferred.

The liquid crystal composition of this embodiment preferably furthercontains at least two of the compound represented by Formula (2.5),compounds represented by General Formula (I-1-2), and/or compoundsrepresented by General Formula (II-2); and more preferably at leastthree of them.

In particular, relative to the total mass of the liquid crystalcomposition, the amount of the compound represented by Formula (2.5) ispreferably from 1 to 30 mass %, and more preferably 20 to 30 mass %; theamount of the compound represented by Formula (2.2) is preferably from 1to 25 mass %, more preferably 10 to 20 mass %, and further preferably 12to 18 mass %; and the amount of the compound represented by Formula(11.1) is preferably from 6 to 25 mass %, more preferably 10 to 20 mass%, and further preferably 12 to 17 mass %.

In an embodiment in which at least two of compounds represented byGeneral Formula (I-1-2) and compounds represented by General Formula(II-2) are used, the total amount of the compound represented by Formula(2.2) and the compound represented by Formula (11.1) is preferably inthe range of 80 to 100 mass %, more preferably 90 to 100 mass %, andfurther preferably 95 to 100 mass % relative to the total mass of all ofthe compounds represented by General Formulae (I-1-2) and (II-2).

The liquid crystal composition of this embodiment preferably furthercontains any of compounds represented by General Formula (V-2).

In General Formula (V-2), it is preferred that R⁵¹ or R⁵² be an alkylgroup having 2 to 5 carbon atoms, it is more preferred that it be analkyl group having 2 or 5 carbon atoms, and it is further preferred thatR⁵¹ and R⁵² have difference in the number of carbon atoms.

In General Formula (V-2), it is preferred that one of X⁵¹ and X⁵² be afluorine atom and that the other one of them be a hydrogen atom.

The especially preferred composition of the above-mentioned embodimenthas all of the following properties: being less likely to cause screenburn-in and droplet stains, greatly reducing contamination ofmanufacturing equipment, and having very high process adaptability andvery good solubility at low temperature. Hence, it is an excellentliquid crystal composition having very well balanced properties. Inparticular, the composition has an excellent balance between the degreeof process adaptability and a reduction in screen burn-in.

<Liquid Crystal Display Device>

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention, to which apolymerizable compound has been added, is used in liquid crystal displaydevices in which the polymerizable compound is polymerized by beingirradiated with ultraviolet for alignment of liquid crystal moleculesand in which the birefringence of the liquid crystal composition isutilized to control the amount of light that is to be transmitted. Sucha liquid crystal composition is useful for liquid crystal displaydevices, such as an ECB-LCD, a VA-LCD, a VA-IPS-LCD, an FFS-LCD, anAM-LCD (active-matrix liquid crystal display device), a TN (nematicliquid crystal display device), an STN-LCD (super twisted nematic liquidcrystal display device), an OCB-LCD, and an IPS-LCD (in-plane switchingliquid crystal display device), particularly useful for an AM-LCD, andcan be used in transmissive or reflective liquid crystal displaydevices.

Two substrates used in a liquid crystal cell included in a liquidcrystal display device can be made of a transparent material havingflexibility, such as glass or a plastic material, and one of thesesubstrates may be made of a non-transparent material such as silicon. Inorder to form a transparent electrode layer on a transparent substratesuch as a glass plate, for example, indium tin oxide (ITO) is sputteredon the transparent substrate.

Color filters can be produced by, for instance, a pigment dispersiontechnique, a printing technique, an electrodeposition technique, or astaining technique. In production of the color filters by, for example,a pigment dispersion technique, a curable colored composition for acolor filter is applied onto the transparent substrate, subjected topatterning, and then cured by being heated or irradiated with light.This process is carried out for each of three colors of red, green, andblue, thereby being able to produce the pixels of the color filters.Active elements such as a TFT and a thin-film diode may be provided onthe resulting substrate to form pixel electrodes.

The substrates are arranged so as to face each other with thetransparent electrode layer interposed therebetween. In the arrangementof the substrates, a spacer may be present between the substrates toadjust the distance therebetween. In this case, the distance between thesubstrates is adjusted so that the thickness of a light modulating layerto be formed is preferably in the range of 1 to 100 μm, and morepreferably 1.5 to 10 μm. In the case where a polarizing plate is used,the product of the refractive index anisotropy Δn of liquid crystal anda cell thickness d is preferably adjusted for maximization of contrast.In the case where two polarizing plates are used, the polarization axisof each polarizing plate may be adjusted to give a good viewing angle orcontrast. Furthermore, a retardation film may be also used to increase aviewing angle. Examples of the spacer include columnar spacers made of,for instance, glass particles, plastic particles, alumina particles, orphotoresist materials. A sealing material such as a thermosetting epoxycomposition is subsequently applied to the substrates by screen printingin a state in which a liquid crystal inlet has been formed, thesubstrates are attached to each other, and then the sealing material isheated to be thermally cured.

The polymerizable-compound-containing liquid crystal composition can beput into the space between the two substrates by, for example, a vacuuminjection technique or ODF technique which is generally employed. Avacuum injection technique, however, has a problem in which traces ofthe injection remain while droplet stains are not generated. The presentinvention can be more suitably applied to display devices manufacturedby an ODF technique. In a process for manufacturing a liquid crystaldisplay device by an ODF technique, an optically and thermally curableepoxy-based sealing material is applied to any one of a backplane and afrontplane with a dispenser in the form of a closed loop that serves asa wall, a certain amount of the liquid crystal composition is droppedonto part of the substrate surrounded by the applied sealing material ina degassed atmosphere, and then the frontplane and the backplane arebonded to each other, thereby being able to manufacture a liquid crystaldisplay device. The liquid crystal composition of the present inventioncan be stably dropped in an ODF process and can be therefore desirablyused.

Since a proper polymerization rate is desired to enable liquid crystalmolecules to be aligned in a good manner, the polymerizable compound ispreferably polymerized by being irradiated with one of active energyrays, such as an ultraviolet ray and an electron beam, or by beingirradiated with such active energy rays used in combination or insequence. In the use of an ultraviolet ray, a polarized light source ora non-polarized light source may be used. In the case where thepolymerizable-compound-containing liquid crystal composition ispolymerized in a state in which the composition has been disposedbetween the two substrates, at least the substrate on the side fromwhich active energy rays are emitted needs to have transparency suitablefor the active energy rays. Another technique may be used, in which onlythe intended part is polymerized by being irradiated with light with amask, the alignment state of the non-polymerized part is subsequentlychanged by adjustment of conditions such as an electric field, amagnetic field, or temperature, and then polymerization is furthercarried out through irradiation with active energy rays. In particular,it is preferred that exposure to ultraviolet radiation be carried outwhile an alternating current electric field is applied to thepolymerizable-compound-containing liquid crystal composition. Thealternating current electric field to be applied preferably has afrequency ranging from 10 Hz to 10 kHz, and more preferably 60 Hz to 10kHz; and the voltage is determined on the basis of a predeterminedpretilt angle in a liquid crystal display device. In other words, thepretilt angle in a liquid crystal display device can be controlled byadjustment of voltage that is to be applied. In MVA-mode liquid crystaldisplay devices which involve use of a horizontal electric field, apretilt angle is preferably controlled to be from 80 degrees to 89.9degrees in view of alignment stability and contrast.

The temperature in the irradiation procedure is preferably within atemperature range in which the liquid crystal state of the liquidcrystal composition of the present invention can be maintained.Polymerization is preferably carried out at a temperature close to roomtemperature, i.e., typically from 15 to 35° C. Preferred examples of alamp that is usable for emitting an ultraviolet ray include a metalhalide lamp, a high-pressure mercury lamp, and an ultrahigh-pressuremercury lamp. In addition, an ultraviolet ray to be emitted preferablyhas a wavelength that is in a wavelength region different from thewavelength region of light absorbed by the liquid crystal composition;it is preferred that an ultraviolet ray in a particular wavelength rangebe cut off as needed. The intensity of an ultraviolet ray to be emittedis preferably from 0.1 mW/cm² to 100 W/cm², and more preferably 2 mW/cm²to 50 W/cm². The energy of an ultraviolet ray to be emitted can beappropriately adjusted: preferably from 10 mJ/cm² to 500 J/cm², and morepreferably 100 mJ/cm² to 200 J/cm². The intensity may be changed in theexposure to ultraviolet radiation. The time of the exposure toultraviolet radiation is appropriately determined on the basis of theintensity of an ultraviolet ray to be emitted: preferably from 10seconds to 3600 seconds, and more preferably 10 seconds to 600 seconds.

Liquid crystal display devices using the liquid crystal composition ofthe present invention are practical because they quickly respond and areless likely to suffer from defective display at the same time; inparticular, the liquid crystal composition is useful to active-matrixliquid crystal display devices and can be applied to liquid crystaldisplay devices of a VA mode, PSVA mode, PSA mode, IPS (in-planeswitching) mode, VA-IPS mode, FSS (fringe-field switching) mode, and ECBmode.

A liquid crystal display according to a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention will now be described in detail with reference to thedrawings.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a liquid crystal displaydevice which includes two substrates facing each other, a sealingmaterial disposed between the substrates, and liquid crystal confined ina sealed region surrounded by the sealing material.

In particular, FIG. 1 illustrates a specific embodiment of a liquidcrystal display device including a backplane, a frontplane, a sealingmaterial 301 disposed between these substrates, and a liquid crystallayer 303 confined in a sealed region surrounded by the sealingmaterial. The backplane includes a first substrate 100, TFT layers 102and pixel electrodes 103 each formed so as to overlie the firstsubstrate 100, and a passivation film 104 and first alignment film 105each formed so as to cover these components. The frontplane faces thebackplane and includes a second substrate 200; a black matrix 202, colorfilters 203, planarization film (overcoat layer) 201, and transparentelectrode 204 each formed so as to overlie the second substrate 200; anda second alignment film 205 formed so as to cover these components. Inaddition, protrusions (columnar spacers) 302 and 304 are extending froma surface to which the sealing material 301 has been applied.

Any substantially transparent material can be used for the firstsubstrate or the second substrate; for instance, glass, ceramicmaterials, and plastic materials can be used. Examples of materials usedfor the plastic substrate include cellulose derivatives such ascellulose, triacetyl cellulose, and diacetyl cellulose; polyesters suchas polycycloolefin derivatives, polyethylene terephthalate, andpolyethylene naphthalate; polyolefins such as polypropylene andpolyethylene; polycarbonate; polyvinyl alcohol; polyvinyl chloride;polyvinylidene chloride; polyamide; polyimide; polyimideamide;polystyrene; polyacrylate; polymethyl methacrylate; polyethersulfone;polyarylate; and inorganic-organic composite materials such as glassfiber-epoxy resin and glass fiber-acrylic resin.

In the case where the plastic substrate is used, a barrier film ispreferably formed. The barrier film serves to reduce the moisturepermeability of the plastic substrate, which enhances the reliability ofthe electrical properties of the liquid crystal display device. Anybarrier film having high transparency and low water vapor permeabilitycan be used; in general, a thin film formed of an inorganic material,such as silicon oxide, by vapor deposition, sputtering, or a chemicalvapor deposition method (CVD method) can be used.

In the present invention, the first and second substrates may be formedof materials that are the same as or different from each other withoutlimitation. A glass substrate is preferably employed because using theglass substrate enables manufacturing of a liquid crystal display deviceexhibiting excellent thermal resistance and dimensional stability. Aplastic substrate is also preferably employed because it is suitable formanufacturing by a roll-to-roll process and appropriately enables weightreduction and an enhancement in flexibility. In terms of impartingflatness and thermal resistance to the substrate, a combination of aplastic substrate and a glass substrate can give a good result.

In Examples which will be described later, a substrate is used as amaterial of the first substrate 100 or the second substrate 200.

In the backplane, the TFT layers 102 and the pixel electrodes 103 aredisposed so as to overlie the first substrate 100. These components areformed through an arraying process which is generally used. Thepassivation film 104 and the first alignment film 105 are formed so asto cover these components, thereby completing the formation of thebackplane.

The passivation film 104 (also referred to as an inorganic protectivefilm) is a film used for protecting the TFT layers; in general, anitride film (SiNx), an oxide film (SiOx), or another film is formed by,for example, a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method.

The first alignment film 105 is a film which serves to align liquidcrystal molecules; in general, a polymeric material, such as polyimide,is used in many cases. An alignment agent solution containing apolymeric material and a solvent is used as a coating liquid. Thealignment film may reduce adhesion to the sealing material and istherefore applied in patterns in a sealed region. The alignment agentsolution is applied by a printing technique, such as flexography, or adroplet ejection technique, such as an ink jet technique. The alignmentagent solution which has been applied is temporarily dried for thesolvent being evaporated and then baked to be cross-linked and cured.Then, the cured product is subjected to an alignment treatment in orderto produce an alignment function.

In general, a rubbing process is employed for the alignment treatment.The polymeric film produced as described above is unidirectionallyrubbed with a rubbing cloth formed of a fibrous material such as rayon,which produces a function of aligning liquid crystal molecules.

A photo-alignment technique may be used. In the photo-alignmenttechnique, an alignment function is produced by emission of polarizedlight onto an alignment film containing a photosensitive organicmaterial, so that damage of a substrate and generation of dusts whichare each caused by a rubbing process are eliminated. Examples of theorganic materials used in the photo-alignment technique includematerials containing dichroic dyes. A material usable as the dichroicdye has a group which induces an optical reaction resulting inproduction of a function of aligning liquid crystal molecules(hereinafter referred to as photo-alignment group), such as induction ofmolecular alignment or isomerization reaction (e.g., azobenzene group)caused by the Weigert effect based on photodichroism, a dimerizationreaction (e.g., cinnamoyl group), a photo-cross-linking reaction (e.g.,benzophenone group), or a photodegradation reaction (e.g., polyimidegroup). After the applied alignment agent solution is temporarily driedfor the solvent being evaporated, the product is irradiated with lighthaving a predetermined polarization (polarized light), thereby beingable to produce an alignment film which enables alignment in theintended direction.

In the frontplane, the black matrix 202, the color filters 203, theplanarization film 201, the transparent electrode 204, and the secondalignment film 205 are disposed so as to overlie the second substrate200.

The black matrix 202 is formed by, for example, a pigment dispersiontechnique. In particular, a color resin liquid in which a black coloranthas been uniformly dispersed for formation of the black matrix isapplied onto the second substrate 200 on which the barrier film 201 hasbeen formed, thereby forming a colored layer. The colored layer issubsequently cured by being baked. A photoresist is applied onto thecured layer and then pre-baked. The photoresist is exposed to lightthrough a mask pattern, and then development is carried out to patternthe colored layer. Then, the photoresist layer is removed, and thecolored layer is baked, thereby completing the black matrix 202.

Alternatively, a photoresist-type pigment dispersion liquid may be used.In this case, the photoresist-type pigment dispersion liquid is applied,pre-baked, and then exposed to light through a mask pattern; anddevelopment is subsequently carried out to pattern the colored layer.Then, the photoresist layer is removed, and the colored layer is baked,thereby completing the black matrix 202.

The color filters 203 are formed by a pigment dispersion technique, anelectrodeposition technique, a printing technique, or a stainingtechnique. In a pigment dispersion technique, for example, a color resinliquid in which a pigment (e.g., red) has been uniformly dispersed isapplied onto the second substrate 200 and then cured by being baked, anda photoresist is applied onto the cured product and pre-baked. Thephotoresist is exposed to light through a mask pattern, and thendevelopment is carried out to form a pattern. The photoresist layer issubsequently removed, and baking is carried out again, therebycompleting a (red) color filter 203. The color filters may be formed inany order of colors. A green color filter 203 and a blue color filter203 are similarly formed.

The transparent electrode 204 is formed so as to overlie the colorfilters 203 (the overcoat layer (201) is optionally formed on the colorfilters 203 to flatten the surfaces). The transparent electrode 204preferably has a high light transmittance and low electric resistance.In the formation of the transparent electrode 204, an oxide film of, forexample, ITO is formed by sputtering.

In order to protect the transparent electrode 204, a passivation film isformed on the transparent electrode 204 in some cases.

The second alignment film 205 is the same as the above-mentioned firstalignment film 105.

Although a specific embodiment of the backplane and frontplane used inthe present invention has been described, the present invention is notlimited to this specific embodiment and can be freely modified toprovide a desired liquid crystal display device.

The columnar spacers may have any shape, and the horizontal sectionthereof may have any shape such as a circular, square, or polygonalshape; in particular, the horizontal section preferably has a circularshape or a regular polygonal shape in view of a margin for misalignmentin the formation process. Furthermore, such protrusions preferably havethe shape of a circular truncated cone or truncated pyramid.

Any material which is insoluble in the sealing material, an organicsolvent used in the sealing material, and the liquid crystal can be usedfor the columnar spacers; a synthetic resin (curable resin) ispreferably employed in terms of processability and weight reduction. Theprotrusions can be formed above the surface of the first substrate byphotolithography or a droplet ejection technique, the surface beingsubjected to application of the sealing material. For such a reason, aphotocurable resin suitable for photolithography and a droplet ejectiontechnique is preferably employed.

An illustrative case in which the columnar spacers are formed byphotolithography will now be described. FIG. 2 illustrates an exposureprocess in which a pattern for forming the columnar spacers above theblack matrix is employed as the pattern of a photomask.

A resin solution (not containing a colorant) used for forming thecolumnar spacers is applied onto the transparent electrode 204 of thefrontplane. Then, the resulting resin layer 402 is cured by being baked.A photoresist is applied onto the cured layer and then pre-baked. Thephotoresist is exposed to light through a mask pattern 401, and thendevelopment is carried out to pattern the resin layer. The photoresistlayer is subsequently removed, and then the resin layer is baked,thereby completing the columnar spacers (corresponding to 302 and 0304in FIG. 1).

Positions at which the columnar spacers are to be formed can beappropriately determined on the basis of the mask pattern. Accordingly,both the inside of the sealed region and the outside thereof (part towhich the sealing material is to be applied) can be simultaneouslyformed in the liquid crystal display device. The columnar spacers arepreferably formed above the black matrix in order to avoid degrading thequality of the sealed region. The columnar spacers formed byphotolithography as described above are also referred to as columnspacers or photo spacers.

The material used for forming the spacers is a mixture containing, forexample, a negative water-soluble resin, such as a PVA-stilbazophotosensitive resin; a polyfunctional acrylic monomer; an acrylic acidcopolymer; and a triazole-based initiator. In another technique, a colorrein in which a colorant has been dispersed in a polyimide resin isused. In the present invention, any technique can be employed, andexisting materials suitable for liquid crystal and sealing material,which are to be used, can be used to form the spacers.

After the columnar spacers are formed on part of the surface of thefrontplane, which serves as the sealed region, in this manner, thesealing material (corresponding to 301 in FIG. 1) is applied to theintended part of the surface of the backplane.

Any material can be used as the sealing material, and a curable resincomposition prepared by addition of a polymerization initiator to anepoxy-based or acrylic resin which is photocurable, thermosetting, oroptically and thermally curable is used. Fillers containing inorganic ororganic materials are added in some cases to control moisturepermeability, an elastic modulus, viscosity, and another property. Suchfillers may have any shape such as a spherical shape, a fibrous shape,or an amorphous shape. Furthermore, a spherical or fibrous gap materialhaving a single dispersion diameter may be mixed to properly control thecell gap, and a fibrous material which can be easily wound around theprotrusions formed above the substrate may be mixed to enhance theadhesion to the plates. The diameter of the fibrous material used inthis case is desirably from approximately ⅕ to 1/10 of the cell gap, andthe length of the fibrous material is desirably shorter than the widthof an applied sealing material.

Any substance can be used as the fibrous material provided that thefibrous material can have a predetermined shape; synthetic fibers, suchas cellulose, polyamide, and polyester, and inorganic materials, such asglass and carbon, can be appropriately selected.

The sealing material can be applied by a printing technique or adispensing technique, and a dispensing technique is desirably employedbecause the amount of the sealing material to be used in the dispensingtechnique is small. In general, the sealing material is applied to aposition corresponding to the position of the black matrix to avoid anadverse effect on the sealed region. In order to form a liquidcrystal-dropped region used in the subsequent process (to prevent theliquid crystal from leaking), the sealing material is applied in theform of a closed loop.

Liquid crystal is dropped to the closed-loop structure (sealed region)of the frontplane, the closed-loop structure having been formed byapplication of the sealing material. In general, a dispenser is used.Since the amount of liquid crystal to be dropped should be equivalent tothe capacity of a liquid crystal cell, the amount basically correspondsto the volume that is the product of the height of the columnar spacersand the area surrounded by the sealing material. In order to reduce theleakage of liquid crystal in a cell bonding process or to optimizedisplaying characteristics, the amount of the liquid crystal to bedropped may be appropriately adjusted, or positions to which the liquidcrystal are dropped may be dispersed.

Then, the backplane is bonded to the frontplane to which the sealingmaterial has been applied and liquid crystal has been dropped. Inparticular, the frontplane and the backplane are attached to stageshaving a mechanism for holding the substrates, such as an electrostaticchuck, and then the frontplane and the backplane are disposed at aposition (in a distance) which enables the second alignment film of thefrontplane to face the first alignment film of the backplane and whichenables the sealing material not to contact the other side. In thisstate, pressure in the system is reduced. After the reduction inpressure, the positions of the frontplane and backplane are adjusted(alignment process) while parts of the frontplane and backplane whichare to be bonded to each other are confirmed. After the adjustment ofthe positions, the frontplane and the backplane are moved to bring thesealing material on the frontplane into contact with the backplane. Inthis state, the inside of the system is filled with inert gas, and thevacuum is gradually released into normal pressure. In this process,atmospheric pressure enables the frontplane and the backplane to bebonded to each other, and the height of the columnar spacers defines acell gap. In this state, the sealing material is cured by beingirradiated with ultraviolet, thereby forming the liquid crystal cell.Then, a heating process is optionally carried out to promote the curingof the sealing material. The heating process is carried out in manycases to enhance the adhesion of the sealing material and thereliability of electrical properties.

EXAMPLES

Although the present invention will now be described further in detailwith reference to Examples, the present invention is not limited toExamples. In compositions which will be described in Examples andComparative Examples, the term “%” refers to “mass %”.

In Examples, the following properties were measured.

Tni: Nematic phase-isotropic liquid phase transition temperature (° C.)

Δn: Refractive index anisotropy at 298 K (also referred to asbirefringence)

Δ∈: Dielectric anisotropy at 298 K

η: Viscosity at 293 K (mPa·s)

γ1: Rotational viscosity at 298 K (mPa·s)

VHR: Voltage holding ratio (%) at 333 K under the conditions including afrequency of 60 Hz and an applied voltage of 5 V

VHR after Thermal Test: a TEG (test element group) in which a sample ofa liquid crystal composition had been confined and which was used forevaluating electrooptical properties was held in a constant bath at 130°C. for an hour, and then the measurement was carried out under the sameconditions as the above-mentioned measurement of VHR.

Screen Burn-in:

In order to evaluate screen burn-in in a liquid crystal display device,a certain fixed pattern was continuously displayed in a display area fora predetermined test time, and then an image was displayed evenly on thewhole of the screen. In this procedure, test time taken for theafterimage of the fixed pattern to reach an unacceptable level wasmeasured.

1) The term “test time” herein refers to time over which the fixedpattern was displayed. The longer the test time in result of themeasurement was, the more the occurrence of the after image was reduced;the longer test time shows that the liquid crystal display device had ahigh performance.2) The unacceptable level of the after image refers to a level at whichthe degree of the observed after image was determined as beingunacceptable in judgment of acceptance.

Droplet Stains:

In order to evaluate droplet stains in a liquid crystal displayapparatus, white droplet stains which emerged in an entirely-blackdisplay mode were visually observed. Result of the observation wasevaluated on the basis of the following five criteria.

5: No droplet stain observed (excellent)

4: Slight droplet stains observed, but acceptable (good)

3: Some droplet stains observed, the borderline in judgment ofacceptance (acceptable with some conditions)

2: Droplet stains observed, unacceptable (bad)

1: Droplet stains observed, quite inadequate (poor)

Process Adaptability:

In an ODF process, 50 pL of liquid crystal was dropped 100 times with aconstant volume metering pump, and this 100-times dropping was repeatedsuch as “0 to 100, 101 to 200, 201 to 300 . . . ”. The mass of theliquid crystal dropped 100 times was measured in each cycle to obtainthe number of times of the dropping at which a variation in mass reachedthe degree that was unsuitable for the ODF process. Process adaptabilitywas evaluated on the basis of this obtained number of times of thedropping.

The larger the obtained number of times of the dropping was, the moreliquid crystal was able to be stably dropped for a long time; the largernumber of times of the dropping shows that the liquid crystal had highprocess adaptability.

Solubility at Low Temperature:

In order to evaluate solubility at low temperature, a liquid crystalcomposition was prepared and then weighted to 1 g in a 2-mL samplebottle, and the sample bottle was subjected to a continuous temperaturechange in a temperature controlled chamber in a cycle of the followingoperation: −20° C. (retained for an hour)→heating (0.1° C./min)→0° C.(retained for an hour)→heating (0.1° C./min)→20° C. (retained for anhour)→cooling (−0.1° C./min)→0° C. (retained for an hour)→cooling (−0.1°C./min)→−20° C. Then, precipitate generated in the liquid crystalcomposition was visually observed, and the test time at which theprecipitate had been observed was measured.

The longer the test time was, the more the liquid crystal phase wasstably maintained for a long time; the longer test time shows that theliquid crystal composition had a good solubility at low temperature.

Volatility/Contamination of Manufacturing Equipment:

In order to evaluate the volatility of a liquid crystal material,operation of a vacuum defoaming mixer was observed with a stroboscopefor visual surveillance of foaming of the liquid crystal material. Inparticular, 0.8 kg of a liquid crystal composition was put into the2.0-L container dedicated to the vacuum defoaming mixer, the vacuumdefoaming mixer was operated under a vacuum of 4 kPa at an orbital speedof 15 S⁻¹ and a rotating velocity of 7.5 S⁻¹, and the time taken for theliquid crystal composition to start foaming was measured.

The longer the time taken for the liquid crystal composition to startfoaming was, the less the liquid crystal composition was volatilized.Since a less volatile liquid crystal composition hardly contaminatesmanufacturing equipment, a longer time taken for the liquid crystalcomposition to start foaming shows that the liquid crystal compositionhad a high quality.

Examples 1 to 3

Compositions shown in Table 1 were prepared, and IPS liquid crystaldisplay apparatuses having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2were produced. Table 2 shows results of the evaluations of thecompositions and liquid crystal display apparatuses.

Comparative Example 1

A composition shown in Table 1 was prepared without use of the compoundrepresented by General Formula (ii), and an IPS liquid crystal displayapparatus having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 wereproduced. Table 2 shows results of the evaluations of the compositionand liquid crystal display apparatus.

TABLE 1 Ratio (Mass %) Formula of Comparative Compound Example 1 Example1 Example 2 Example 3 Formula (i) 14 14 14 14 Formula (ii.1.1) 7 Formula(ii.1.4) 4 3 Formula (ii.1.6) 8 Formula (ii.2.2) 11 Formula (1.3) 10 1010 10 Formula (2.2) 27 27 27 27 Formula (11.1) 11 Formula (25.23) 5 5 55 Formula (25.24) 2 2 2 2 Formula (26.2) 16 16 16 16 Formula (30.2) 2 22 2 Formula (36.1) 4 4 4 4 Formula (36.3) 4 4 4 4 Formula (45.3) 5 5 5 5

TABLE 2 Result Comparative Evaluation Item Example 1 Example 1 Example 2Example 3 T_(NI)/° C. 97.2 95.6 90.2 91.5 Δn 0.095 0.111 0.104 0.106 Δε6.3 7.3 7.4 7.1 η/mPa · s 13 17 15 16 γ₁/mPa · s 71 78 78 80 InitialVoltage Holding 99.0 99.4 99.3 99.4 Ratio (%) Voltage Holding Ratio 97.598.8 98.8 98.7 after Thermal Test (%) Evaluation of Screen 108 220 360200 Burn-in (h) Evaluation of Droplet 2 5 4 5 Stains Evaluation of 60 7570 100 Contamination of Manufacturing Equipment (s) Evaluation ofProcess 7800 36000 40000 23200 Adaptability (Times) Evaluation of 108600 360 630 Solubility at Low Temperature (h)

The composition prepared in Example 1 was able to be steadily andcontinuously dropped for a long time in an ODF process and hadsignificantly high solubility at low temperature as compared with thecomposition prepared in Comparative Example 1. The liquid crystaldisplay apparatus produced in Example 1 enabled a reduction in screenburn-in as compared with the liquid crystal display apparatus producedin Comparative Example 1.

Examples 4 to 8

Compositions shown in Table 3 were prepared, and IPS liquid crystaldisplay apparatuses having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2were produced. Table 4 shows results of the evaluations of thecompositions and liquid crystal display apparatuses.

TABLE 3 Ratio (Mass %) Formula of Exam- Exam- Compound ple 4 Example 5ple 6 Example 7 Example 8 Formula (i) 4 6 8 8 8 Formula (ii.1.1) 6 5 5Formula (ii.1.4) 5 Formula (ii.1.6) 5 Formula (ii.2.2) 5 Formula (1.3) 89 12 12 12 Formula (2.4) 7 6 3 3 3 Formula (11.1) 10 11 11 6 6 Formula(11.2) 5 Formula (13.3) 4 5 6 6 6 Formula (13.4) 6 5 4 4 4 Formula(28.5) 4 2 Formula (34.2) 10 13 10 15 15 Formula (34.3) 15 13 10 15 15Formula (34.5) 5 4 10 Formula (37.2) 2 2 2 2 2 Formula (54.2) 10 9 8 8 8Formula (56.2) 9 10 11 11 11

TABLE 4 Result Evaluation Item Example 4 Example 5 Example 6 Example 7Example 8 T_(NI)/° C. 101.4 100.7 105.6 101.4 97.0 Δn 0.097 0.094 0.0980.093 0.096 Δε 7.2 7.3 7.2 7.5 8.0 η/mPa · s 21 20 22 19 19 γ₁/mPa · s104 103 111 100 101 Initial Voltage Holding Ratio (%) 99.4 99.6 99.699.4 99.4 Voltage Holding Ratio after 98.8 98.9 98.1 97.5 98.8 ThermalTest (%) Evaluation of Screen Burn-in (h) 600 590 590 280 600 Evaluationof Droplet Stains 5 5 4 5 5 Evaluation of Contamination of 200 110 190185 180 Manufacturing Equipment (s) Evaluation of Process 110000 100000100500 99000 43000 Adaptability (Times) Evaluation of Solubility at Low720 660 610 630 660 Temperature (h)

Examples 9 to 13

Compositions shown in Table 5 were prepared, and IPS liquid crystaldisplay apparatuses having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2were produced. Table 6 shows results of the evaluations of thecompositions and liquid crystal display apparatuses.

TABLE 5 Ratio (Mass %) Formula of Exam- Example Example Example Exam-Compound ple 9 10 11 12 ple 13 Formula (i) 9 10 11 12 8 Formula (ii.1.1)6 8 7 3 6 Formula (ii.1.4) 4 2 7 3 4 Formula (ii.1.6) 3 Formula (ii.2.2)5 4 8 7 Formula (1.2) 15 Formula (1.3) 2 2 5 2 Formula (2.2) 15 17 15 12Formula (11.1) 8 6 4 12 8 Formula (11.2) 2 Formula (26.1) 3 2 1 Formula(26.2) 11 8 9 10 11 Formula (28.5) 8 7 6 5 9 Formula (31.2) 14 14 14 1414 Formula (34.2) 8 7 6 5 4 Formula (37.2) 3 1 2 2 Formula (41.2) 1 2 1Formula (56.1) 1 2 3 Formula (56.2) 9 8 7 6 9

TABLE 6 Result Example Example Example Example Evaluation Item Example 910 11 12 13 T_(NI)/° C. 90.4 88.2 87.9 92.4 94.9 Δn 0.105 0.110 0.1140.111 0.116 Δε 9.3 9.4 10.1 8.2 8.6 η/mPa · s 17 17 19 17 19 γ₁/mPa · s78 79 87 79 73 Initial Voltage Holding Ratio (%) 99.4 99.6 99.6 99.499.4 Voltage Holding Ratio after 98.8 98.9 98.9 98.8 98.8 Thermal Test(%) Evaluation of Screen Burn-in (h) 700 650 640 300 600 Evaluation ofDroplet Stains 5 5 4 5 5 Evaluation of Contamination of 210 100 190 195185 Manufacturing Equipment (s) Evaluation of Process 120000 99000100000 98000 29500 Adaptability (Times) Evaluation of Solubility at Low640 600 610 625 630 Temperature (h)

Examples 14 to 17

Compositions shown in Table 7 were prepared, and IPS liquid crystaldisplay apparatuses having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2were produced. Table 8 shows results of the evaluations of thecompositions and liquid crystal display apparatuses.

TABLE 7 Ratio (Mass %) Formula of Example Compound 14 Example 15 Example16 Example 17 Formula (i) 6 7 3 8 Formula (ii.1.1) 11 10 11 Formula(ii.1.4) 10 13 Formula (ii.1.6) 15 12 11 Formula (1.3) 6 16 Formula(2.2) 16 18 14 39 Formula (2.5) 28 20 15 5 Formula (11.1) 15 11 10 8Formula (11.2) 9 1 8 Formula (20.2) 4 3 Formula (23.1) 2 3 4 Formula(26.2) 7 6 10 5

TABLE 8 Result Evaluation Item Example 14 Example 15 Example 16 Example17 T_(NI)/° C. 76.3 84.8 88.0 85.0 Δn 0.117 0.110 0.124 0.112 Δε 3.9 3.73.8 3.4 η/mPa · s 11 10 14 11 γ₁/mPa · s 44 47 54 51 Initial VoltageHolding Ratio (%) 99.4 99.6 99.6 99.4 Voltage Holding Ratio after 98.898.9 98.9 98.8 Thermal Test (%) Evaluation of Screen Burn-in (h) 700 650640 300 Evaluation of Droplet Stains 5 5 4 5 Evaluation of Contaminationof 210 100 190 195 Manufacturing Equipment (s) Evaluation of Process120000 99000 100000 98000 Adaptability (Times) Evaluation of Solubilityat Low 640 600 610 625 Temperature (h)

Examples 18 to 21

Compositions shown in Table 9 were prepared, and IPS liquid crystaldisplay apparatuses having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2were produced. Table 10 shows results of the evaluations of thecompositions and liquid crystal display apparatuses.

TABLE 9 Ratio (Mass %) Formula of Example Compound 18 Example 19 Example20 Example 21 Formula (i) 2 2 4 6 Formula (ii.1.1) 11 13 10 9 Formula(ii.1.4) 6 5 Formula (ii.1.6) 15 11 5 7 Formula (1.2) 18 Formula (1.3) 78 Formula (2.2) 16 23 26 14 Formula (2.5) 27 20 10 5 Formula (11.1) 15 510 13 Formula (11.2) 10 5 Formula (15.1) 2 5 5 Formula (23.1) 2 2 2 2Formula (26.1) 6 Formula (26.2) 12 6 10 8

TABLE 10 Result Evaluation Item Example 18 Example 19 Example 20 Example21 T_(NI)/° C. 76.3 76.6 84.7 86.4 Δn 0.117 0.114 0.113 0.111 Δε 3.9 4.03.4 2.9 η/mPa · s 11 11 10 9 γ₁/mPa · s 44 46 50 42 Initial VoltageHolding Ratio (%) 99.4 99.4 99.6 99.4 Voltage Holding Ratio after 98.898.8 98.9 98.8 Thermal Test (%) Evaluation of Screen Burn-in (h) 550 450450 460 Evaluation of Droplet Stains 5 5 4 4 Evaluation of Contaminationof 180 175 168 200 Manufacturing Equipment (s) Evaluation of Process98000 80000 89000 97000 Adaptability (Times) Evaluation of Solubility atLow 550 540 550 525 Temperature (h)

Examples 22 to 25

Compositions shown in Table 11 were prepared, and IPS liquid crystaldisplay apparatuses having the structure illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2were produced. Table 12 shows results of the evaluations of thecompositions and liquid crystal display apparatuses.

TABLE 11 Ratio (Mass %) Formula of Example Compound 22 Example 23Example 24 Example 25 Formula (i) 2 5 4 5 Formula (ii.1.6) 4 Formula(ii.2.2) 8 8 Formula (ii.2.4) 12 10 Formula (1.3) 10 12 7 16 Formula(2.2) 37 36 41 27 Formula (11.1) 12 7 9 13 Formula (11.2) 4 8 6 5Formula (15.1) 2 Formula (23.1) 4 Formula (31.2) 8 5 10 4 Formula (31.4)2 2 5 Formula (39.2) 3 Formula (44.1) 4 2 1 3 Formula (44.2) 4 3 5 2Formula (45.2) 2 3 5 4 Formula (45.3) 3 2 4

TABLE 12 Result Evaluation Item Example 22 Example 23 Example 24 Example25 T_(NI)/° C. 95.1 95.2 99.0 100.0 Δn 0.106 0.104 0.102 0.108 Δε 4.74.7 4.6 5.0 η/mPa · s 14 13 13 15 γ₁/mPa · s 60 64 58 71 Initial VoltageHolding Ratio (%) 99.5 99.5 99.5 99.5 Voltage Holding Ratio after 98.598.4 98.5 98.4 Thermal Test (%) Evaluation of Screen Burn-in (h) 700 600550 650 Evaluation of Droplet Stains 5 5 4 5 Evaluation of Contaminationof 180 175 145 190 Manufacturing Equipment (s) Evaluation of Process112000 100000 99900 98700 Adaptability (Times) Evaluation of Solubilityat Low 600 590 530 600 Temperature (h)

Each of the liquid crystal compositions prepared in Examples had a lowviscosity and a good solubility at low temperature. The liquid crystalcomposition was less volatile and thus contributed to a reduction incontamination of equipment. Furthermore, a variation in the amount ofthe droplets of the liquid crystal composition in an ODF process wasable to be reduced, which enabled stable production of liquid crystaldisplay apparatuses for a long time. Moreover, each of the liquidcrystal display apparatuses produced in Examples had an excellentthermal resistance and therefore had stable display propertiesmaintained for a long time.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The liquid crystal composition of the present invention with positivedielectric anisotropy has a good solubility at low temperature, andchanges in its specific resistance and voltage holding ratio due toexposure to heat or light are significantly small; hence, productsproduced therefrom are highly practical, and liquid crystal displaydevices using such a liquid crystal composition can quickly respond. Inaddition, the liquid crystal composition can be continuously and stablydropped in a process for manufacturing liquid crystal display devices,which contributes to a reduction in defective display resulting from themanufacturing process and therefore enables high-yield production of theliquid crystal display devices; thus, such a liquid crystal compositionis highly useful.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

-   -   100 First substrate    -   102 TFT layer    -   103 Pixel electrode    -   104 Passivation film    -   105 First alignment film    -   200 Second substrate    -   201 Planarization film    -   202 Black matrix    -   203 Color filter    -   204 Transparent electrode    -   205 Second alignment film    -   301 Sealing material    -   302 Protrusion (columnar spacer)    -   303 Liquid crystal layer    -   304 Protrusion (columnar spacer)    -   401 Mask pattern    -   402 Resin layer

1-7. (canceled)
 8. A liquid crystal composition comprising a compoundrepresented by Formula (i);

a compound represented by General Formula (ii)

where in General Formula (ii), R^(ii1) and R^(ii2) each independentlyrepresent an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxyl grouphaving 1 to 5 carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group having 4 or 5 carbonatoms; and X^(ii1) and X^(ii2) each independently represent a hydrogenatom or a fluorine atom; a compound represented by General Formula(II-2)

where in General Formula (II-2), R²³ represents an alkenyl group having2 to 5 carbon atoms, and R²⁴ represents an alkyl group having 1 to 5carbon atoms or an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; a compoundrepresented by Formula (23.1); and

a compound represented by Formula (26.2)

wherein the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (II-2)is in the range of 6 to 35 mass % relative to the total mass of theliquid crystal composition.
 9. The liquid crystal composition accordingto claim 8, wherein the amount of the compound represented by Formula(i) and the amount of the compound represented by General Formula (ii)are from 1 mass % to 30 mass % and from 1 mass % to 40 mass %,respectively, relative to the total amount of the liquid crystalcomposition.
 10. The liquid crystal composition according to claim 8,further comprising at least one compound represented by General Formula(L)R^(L1)-B^(L1)-L^(L1)-B^(L2)L^(L2)-B^(L3)_(OL)R^(L2)  (L) where R^(L1)and R^(L2) each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 8carbon atoms, and one —CH₂— group or at least two —CH₂— groups notadjoining each other in the alkyl group are each independentlyoptionally substituted with —CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—;OL represents 0, 1, 2, or 3; B^(L1), B^(L2), and B^(L3) eachindependently represent a group selected from the group consisting of(a) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (of which one —CH₂— group or at least two—CH₂— groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with—O—) and (b) a 1,4-phenylene group (of which one —CH═ group or at leasttwo —CH═ groups not adjoining each other are optionally substituted with—N═), and the groups (a) and (b) are each independently optionallysubstituted with a cyano group, a fluorine atom, or a chlorine atom;L^(L1) and L^(L2) each independently represent a single bond, —CH₂CH₂—,—(CH₂)₄—, —OCH₂—, —CH₂O—, —COO—, —OCO—, —OCF₂—, —CF₂O—, —CH═N—N═CH—,—CH═CH—, —CF═CF—, or —C≡C—; in the case where OL is 2 or 3 and whereL^(L2) is multiple, the multiple L^(L2)'s are the same as or differentfrom each other; in the case where OL is 2 or 3 and where B^(L3) ismultiple, the multiple B^(L3)'s are the same as or different from eachother; and the compound represented by General Formula (L) excludes thecompound represented by General Formula (ii) and the compoundrepresented by Formula (23.1).
 11. The liquid crystal compositionaccording to claim 8, further comprising at least one compoundrepresented by General Formula (M)

where R^(M1) represents an alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, andone —CH₂— group or at least two —CH₂— groups not adjoining each other inthe alkyl group are each independently optionally substituted with—CH═CH—, —C≡C—, —O—, —CO—, —COO—, or —OCO—; PM represents 0, 1, 2, 3, or4; C^(M1) and C^(M2) each independently represent a group selected fromthe group consisting of (d) a 1,4-cyclohexylene group (of which one—CH₂— group or at least two —CH₂— groups not adjoining each other areoptionally substituted with —O— or —S—) and (e) a 1,4-phenylene group(of which one —CH═ group or at least two —CH═ groups not adjoining eachother are optionally substituted with —N═), and the groups (d) and (e)are each independently optionally substituted with a cyano group, afluorine atom, or a chlorine atom; K^(M1) and K^(M2) each independentlyrepresent a single bond, —CH₂CH₂—, —(CH₂)₄—, —OCH₂—, —CH₂O—, —OCF₂—,—CF₂O—, —COO—, —OCO—, or —C≡C—; in the case where PM is 2, 3, or 4 andwhere K^(M1) is multiple, the multiple K^(M1)'s are the same as ordifferent from each other; in the case where PM is 2, 3, or 4 and whereC^(M2) is multiple, the multiple C^(M2)'s are the same as or differentfrom each other; X^(M1) and X^(M3) each independently represent ahydrogen atom, a chlorine atom, or a fluorine atom; X^(M2) represents ahydrogen atom, a fluorine atom, a chlorine atom, a cyano group, atrifluoromethyl group, a fluoromethoxy group, a difluoromethoxy group, atrifluoromethoxy group, or a 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl group; and thecompound represented by General Formula (M) excludes the compoundrepresented by Formula (i) and the compound represented by Formula(26.2).
 12. A liquid crystal display device comprising the liquidcrystal composition according to claim
 8. 13. The liquid crystal displaydevice according to claim 12, wherein the liquid crystal display deviceis operated in an IPS mode, an OCB mode, an ECB mode, a VA mode, aVA-IPS mode, or an FFS mode.
 14. A liquid crystal display comprising theliquid crystal display device according to claim 12.